10. Durability Enhancing Materials and Techniques

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is fly ash and how does it enhance concrete?

   Hint

   Think about what byproducts of burning might still aid in construction.

2. 2.

   Name a benefit of using silica fume in concrete.

   Hint

   What about the size of the particles makes it effective?

3. 3.

   What does fly ash do for concrete?

   • Reduces strength
   • Increases permeability
   • Enhances long-term strength

   Hint

   Remember that waste can sometimes make a product stronger!

4. 4.

   True or False: Silica fume only works well when mixed with water.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the properties of silica fume itself.

5. 5.

   Design a concrete mixture for a coastal environment using the materials discussed. Justify your choices.

   Hint

   Consider the specific challenges faced by coastal environments.

6. 6.

   Assess a historical concrete failure case. Identify how mineral and chemical admixtures could have helped mitigate the problem.

   Hint

   Think about historical cases where moisture was a primary concern.