OasisLMS

This course explores deterioration of concrete due to sulfate attack, a complex process characterized by multiple manifestations including volume expansion, cracking, spalling, softening of the cementitious matrix creating mushy concrete. Sulfate attack can be classified as internal or external to the cementitious matrix. The underlying damage of sulfate attack can be chemical or physical deterioration. The course scope involves theoretical and experimental aspects of different forms of sulfate attack as well as case studies. This course is an effort to compile current developments in research and standards, and educate practitioners and researchers about this concrete durability issue and its underlying mechanisms. This course also explains the effects of supplementary cementitious materials on mitigating external sulfate attack on concrete exposed to sulfates.

1. Identify laboratory tests – concrete specimen or mortar bar tests – that measure volume expansion in specimens in sulfate environments over different time periods—short-term and long-term tests.
2. Describe mechanisms that initiate internal and external sulfate attack that cause deterioration or expansion in concrete.
3. Explain the characteristics of different sulfate attacks—ettringite sulfate attack, physical sulfate attack, and thaumasite sulfate attack.
4. Describe effects of tested blended cement mortar bars and cements with supplementary cementitious materials including fly ash, silica fume, metakaolin, and cement slag, with regards to sulfate attack deterioration over long-term testing.

Study the materials included in this module. Then, complete and pass the corresponding 10-question quiz with a score of 80% or higher to receive a certificate for 0.1 CEU (1.0 PDH).
Continuing Education Credit: 0.1 CEU (1.0 PDH)
Approved AIA and ICC
Access Period: 30 days