Concrete Performance in Cold Regions: Understanding Concrete’s Resistance to Freezing/Thawing Cycles

Abstract

This Chapter provides a detailed better understanding of the freeze/thaw effect on concrete, it is discussing the attack mechanism for both types of freeze/thaw deterioration: Internal frost damage and Surface scaling. Freeze/thaw attack is a serious problem for concrete but the most common physical deterioration type that shortening the life of concrete in cold environments. An Air-entraining agent is one of the solutions for reducing the effect of freeze/thaw cycles on concrete. Meanwhile Using supplementary cementitious materials in the production of concrete has different effects on the behavior of concrete exposed to freeze/thaw cycles. This chapter is discussing five of the common supplementary cementitious materials and their effect on concrete resistance to freeze/thaw cycles.