ABSTRACT

This chapter provides a short overview, with particular emphasis on issues that are related to concrete durability. Concrete is essentially a composite material consisting of a particulate aggregate phase embedded in a continuous paste matrix, which binds the whole mass together. A modern materials science approach is currently used in its most comprehensive sense to control the fundamental properties of concrete and through it to provide tools for the design of durable concrete structures. The active compounds in Portland cement, providing strength and engineering characteristics to the concrete, consist mainly of calcium silicates produced in a kiln at high temperatures. The composition of the pore water in concrete is quite important with regard to the control of durability. The production of concrete structures and components requires mixes that can be mixed, placed, and finished easily, while maintaining a homogeneous mix. Reduction of the water content in concrete without compromising workability can be achieved by the use of water-reducing chemical admixtures.