14. Durability of Construction Materials
The chapter examines the durability and permeability of construction materials, crucial for the longevity and safety of civil engineering structures. It highlights the factors affecting durability, mechanisms of material deterioration, and measures for enhancing both durability and permeability. Additionally, the chapter discusses the importance of regular testing and evolving design practices that reflect durability as a key performance criterion.
Enroll to start learning
You've not yet enrolled in this course. Please enroll for free to listen to audio lessons, classroom podcasts and take practice test.
Sections
Navigate through the learning materials and practice exercises.
What we have learnt
- Durability is essential for the long-term performance of structures and reduces maintenance costs.
- Permeability is a key factor in the durability of materials, with lower permeability leading to better performance.
- Various factors influence material durability, including environmental conditions, material selection, and construction practices.
Key Concepts
- -- Durability
- The ability of a material to withstand environmental and service-related stresses over time without significant deterioration.
- -- Permeability
- The rate at which fluids or gases can pass through a porous material, influencing the material's durability.
- -- Corrosion
- The chemical deterioration of a material due to environmental exposure, particularly relevant for reinforced concrete.
- -- SelfHealing Concrete
- Concrete that contains microcapsules of healing agents which release when cracks form, allowing for autonomous repair.
- -- Service Life Design (SLD)
- A design approach that considers expected exposure conditions, loadings, and required lifespan for durability purposes.
Additional Learning Materials
Supplementary resources to enhance your learning experience.