4.5.3. Carbonation

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is carbonation?

   Hint

   Think about the chemical changes that occur with CO₂.

2. 2.

   Why is pH important in concrete?

   Hint

   Consider what happens to steel in acidic versus alkaline environments.

3. 3.

   What does carbonation do to the pH of concrete?

   • Increases it
   • Decreases it
   • Has no effect

   Hint

   Think about acids and bases.

4. 4.

   True or False: Carbonation can cause corrosion of steel reinforcement in concrete.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the protective nature of high pH.

5. 5.

   Evaluate the potential structural consequences of carbonation in a bridge exposed to high atmospheric CO₂ levels over 20 years. Discuss the testing methods that can identify such consequences.

   Hint

   What effects would be evident in a bridge compared to a young structure?

6. 6.

   Design a prevention strategy for a new residential building in a coastal area prone to high carbonation rates. Outline materials and techniques to mitigate carbonation effects.

   Hint

   Consider the environmental factors relevant to coastal zones.