Accelerated biodeterioration test of cementitious materials in sewer networks

Author(s): Anaïs Grandclerc, Marielle Guéguen-Minerbe and Thierry Chaussadent
Paper category: Proceedings
Book title: Proceedings of the Final Conference of RILEM 253-MCI Microorganisms-Cementitious Materials Interactions Volume I
Editor(s): Alexandra Bertron and Henk Jonkers
ISBN: 978-2-35158-207-7 (Set)
ISBN: 978-2-35158-209-1 (Volume1)
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-206-0
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2018
Pages: 119-126
Total Pages: 288
Language : English

Abstract: Numerous deteriorations of concrete were detected in sewer environment. Some of these deteriorations are due to H2S presence in the aerial part of sewer pipe. Indeed, some microorganisms (mainly sulfur-oxidizing microorganisms) consume H2S as nutrients and provoke oxidation of H2S into sulfuric acid. Sulfuric acid production leads to the cementitious matrix dissolution and expansive products formation (gypsum and ettringite). These mechanisms conduct to expensive work of rehabilitation and more efficient solutions are essential to a better management of wastewater collection systems.
The aim of this study is to determine the behaviour of different cementitious materials exposed to sewer pipe conditions over time. A laboratory test was proposed in order to reproduce and accelerate biodeterioration mechanisms. Different cementitious materials (mortars based on CEM I, CEM III, CEM V, and CAC cements) were exposed to this test and their behaviour was studied thanks to two sustainability criteria (visual aspect coupled with surface pH measurements and weight loss). The better resistance of CAC mortars was strongly highlighted with these sustainability criteria.

Online publication : 2018
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros) : 0.00