11.13. Durability Modeling and Prediction

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does Fick's Law of Diffusion relate to in concrete durability?

   Hint

   Think about what happens to metals in salty environments.

2. 2.

   Define deterioration curves in the context of concrete.

   Hint

   It relates to how a structure ages.

3. 3.

   What is Fick’s Law used for in concrete durability?

   • Measuring temperature
   • Predicting chloride ingress
   • Calculating concrete strength

   Hint

   Think about how moisture affects concrete.

4. 4.

   True or False: Deterioration curves are only useful after concrete has failed.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider when you might need to act.

5. 5.

   Using Fick’s Law, predict the time it would take for chloride ions to reach the steel reinforcement at a depth of 50 mm under specific conditions.

   Hint

   Refer back to the formulas we discussed in class.

6. 6.

   Analyze a deterioration curve and determine the optimal time frame for maintenance interventions.

   Hint

   Look for where the graph's slope steepens!