Since the spring of 1992 a large number of concrete
slabs of about 40 different concrete compositions were exposed at a
field test site in Träslövsläges port of Varberg on the Swedish west
coast. Through a number of research projects thorough mapping of
moisture and chloride profiles in concrete specimens have been made
after 1, 2, 5 and 10 years of exposure. The overall objective of the
project is to investigate chloride ingress and reinforcement corrosion
in concrete specimens after 20 years of exposure. It is the first time
in history that we have access to as well-documented long-term tests
under natural exposure. Measurement after 20 years of exposure provides
unique data that contributes to more reliable service life designs. This
knowledge can be used both in material selection and design of new
concrete structures but also in the assessment of remaining life and as a
basis for planning of maintenance and repairs to existing structures.
The results will also lead to increased knowledge about how quickly
chlorides penetrate into the concrete with different binders and
increased knowledge of chloride threshold values for these binders. This
knowledge is important for making the right choice of materials from a
sustainability perspective.
The project is carried out at the Division of Building Technology in the research group Building Materials.
Keywords: Cement, chloride, concrete, corrosion, durability, moisture