Application of Electrodeposition Method in Upgrading Mortar Durability

Abstract

A novel electrodeposition method in which silicate ions are key materials, has been applied on mortar samples. The microstructures of electrodeposited mortar were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction instrument (XRD), mercury intrusion porosimeter (MIP) and differential thermo-gravimetric analysis (DTG). The durability of electrodeposited mortar was evaluated by examining the resistance to carbonization, sulfate attack and chloride diffusion. The results indicate that the method can not only refine the pore structure, but also coat the surface of mortar. In comparison with the control mortar, the carbonization depth at the same carbonization time and the reduction in the compressive strength after the identical time of exposure to sodium sulfate solution for the electrodeposited mortar are decreased. In addition, the chloride diffusion coefficient is remarkably decreased by approximate three times. Based on these, the electrodeposition method is promising for the application in upgrading the durability of real concrete structure.