ABSTRACT
Abstract Service-life prediction of a concrete structure appears as key issue in civil engineering. Realistic results are possible if material and structural considerations are taking into account in the same model. Thermodynamics of irreversible processes result in a mathematical model which involves physico-chemical reactions and site observations. Considering the macro, meso and micro levels, the structural effects, such as expansion, cracking, loss of strength, are at the macrolevel, while the chemical reactions include atomic bonds between cement hydrates and internal and external ions through the pore solution. So the model starts at the microlevel and progresses to the concrete structure. Keywords: Durability, Modelling, Thermodynamic, cracking, permeability, AAR
Mathematical service-life prediction of a concrete structure is now a key issue for researchers in material science. Nevertheless, it is a rather complex problem because a chemical reaction such as alkali-aggregate reaction is a coupled one. Chemistry, physics and mechanics strongly interfere.
