Accelerated Degradation and Durability of Concrete in Cold Climates
AIDC project number: 410029
PI(s):
Pizhong Qiao (WSU)
Funding:
US Department of Transportation (RITA)
Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities
Washington State University
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Start Date: Jul 1, 2010
End Date: Jun 30, 2012
Project Summary
Degradation of aggregate in concrete can be caused by erosion or fracture over time. Extensive studies have been conducted on concrete mix design and composition of cementitious materials to improve the performance and durability of concrete. This project is a collaboration between researchers at UAF and Washington State University. Project tasks include application of a promising testing protocol for long-term concrete performance characterization, evaluating damage accumulation and concrete durability at cold temperatures with damage mechanics models, developing specifications on performance criteria and service life predictions, and providing guidelines for ADOT&PF to evaluate concrete performance and safety. Study outcomes will benefit the construction and maintenance of transportation infrastructure in cold climates.
