Acid resistance and corrosion protection potential of concrete prepared with alkali aluminosilicate cement

An experimental investigation was conducted on two key aspects of the durability characteristics of concrete materials prepared with an alkali aluminosilicate hydraulic cement and with Portland cement, both cured at room temperature. The durability characteristics evaluated concerned the acid resistance of concrete, and its ability to protect the embedded reinforcing steel against corrosion under wet-dry cycles. Acid resistance was evaluated through monitoring of mass and strength change over time under acid attack, visual observations, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Corrosion resistance was evaluated through measurement of the corrosion potential, visual observations and scanning electron microscopy. The acid resistance and corrosion protection potential of the concrete prepared with the alkali aluminosilicate cement were found to be superior to those of Portland cement concrete.