Service Life Prediction of Concrete Coated with Surface Protection Materials by Ultrasonic Velocity in Cold Region

Abstract

Lithium silicate (LS) crack repairing material, working as a crystal waterproof material, could be used to strengthen concrete made from solid waste materials. This paper presents the results of water absorption and rapid freeze–thaw tests with concrete specimens coated with LS. Concrete specimens with different water–binder ratios and air content (0.35–1 and 0.55–4.5) were tested. The moisture uptake and water absorption coefficient were analyzed in the water absorption test. The water absorption coefficient of LS-coated specimens was lower than that of uncoated specimens, resulting in a lower total moisture content. The relative dynamic modulus of elasticity was calculated by the fundamental transverse frequency (Er) and ultrasonic velocity (Ev), respectively. Er and Ev exhibited similar attenuation characteristics, and the attenuation of LS-coated specimens was lower than that of uncoated specimens. A two-segment freeze–thaw damage model based on Er and Ev was employed to predict the service life of concrete. The relative errors of the service life results calculated by Er and Ev were within 10%. The two-segment freeze–thaw model could be used for the service life prediction of concrete structures. The present work provides new insight into using LS to improve the service life of concrete.