Fatigue performance of polymer and ordinary cement concrete under corrosive conditions: A comparative study

Many concrete structures such as bridges, offshore structures, and pavements are under cyclic loads when they are exposed to different environmental conditions during their lifespan. The durability and fatigue performance of these structures are significant issues that should be considered. Therefore, this study investigated the long-term environmental effects on Polymer Concrete (PC) and Ordinary Cement Concrete (OCC) subjected to cyclic fatigue loading under four different environmental conditions (freshwater, seawater, acidic and alkaline) for six months. Concrete specimens are tested under high cyclic loading with the frequency of 6 Hz and low cyclic loading with a frequency of 1 Hz. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) is additionally used to assess the microstructural changes after six months of exposure. The results indicate that the exposed PC showed significantly better fatigue performance in comparison with OCC. The acidic and alkaline solutions have a considerable influence on the fatigue life of specimens. Furthermore, the freshwater and seawater decreased the fatigue life of the PC but increased the fatigue life of OCC. Based on the results, PCs can be considered as a good candidate for structures affected by cyclic loading, repairing, or rehabilitation.