Characterisation of concrete structures along the Reschen frontier, South Tyrol, Italy

Author(s): Tobias Bader, Anja Diekamp
Paper category: Proceedings
Book title: Proceedings of the 5th Historic Mortars Conference
Editor(s): José Ignacio Álvarez, José María Fernández, Íńigo Navarro, Adrián Durán, Rafael Sirera
ISBN: 978-2-35158-221-3
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-222-0
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2019
Pages: 495-505
Total Pages: 11
Language : English

Abstract: In the years 1938 - 1942, an extensive system of fortification was built along the Reschen
frontier, South Tyrol, Italy. The military fortification system comprises different concrete
structures, which were subjected to natural weathering for more than eight decades. The
present study deals with first results of the chemical-mineralogical characterisation of two
concrete structures (bunker, anti-tank barrier). Polished thin sections of the near-surface
parts were analysed by polarized light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy coupled
with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy in order to assess the material characteristics. The
observed high binder to aggregate ratio in combination with sub-angular to angular shaped
aggregate grains suggests the use of lean concrete for the construction of the fortification
system. The current condition of the investigated concrete structures differs with regard to
the position within the fortification system. The position of the anti-tank barrier within the
high moor in combination with the climatic conditions of the Alps seem to have promoted
deleterious chemical reactions between sulphate ions and components of the hardened
cement paste. The knowledge on material characteristics (microstructure and individual
components of concrete) and the current condition of the concrete structures is believed to
be beneficial for the planning of maintenance works in the future.

Online publication : 2019
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros) : 0.00