A two-scale approach to concrete carbonation

Author(s): S.A. Meier, M.A. Peter, A. Muntean, M. Böhm and J. Kropp
Paper category: Workshop
Book title: International RILEM Workshop on Integral Service Life Modelling of Concrete Structures
Editor(s): R.M. Ferreira, J. Gulikers, C. Andrade
Print ISBN: 978-2-35158-058-5
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-090-5
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Pages: 3 - 10
Total Pages: 8
Language: English

Abstract: We present a new approach of modelling the carbonation of concrete which accounts for diffusion processes on two different spatial scales. On the macroscopic scale, carbon dioxide is transported through the network of large capillary pores. On the microscopic scale, local transport and reaction take place in the small pores of the C-S-H gel phase. These processes are modelled on a representative unit cell by assuming an idealised, regular microstructure of the cement paste. Using a two-scale computational scheme, the model is validated by comparison with experimental data. It is examined under which conditions microscopic diffusion effects can play a significant role for the speed of the carbonation process.

Keywords: Carbonation, double-porosity, microstructure, mathematical modelling

Online publication: 2013
Publication Type: full_text
Public price (Euros): 0.00