Degradation of concrete-based structures by atmospheric and environmental factors: A fast and versatile on-site monitoring approach

Abstract

We present a preliminary study on a fast and vesatile approach, based on the use of a portable Raman spectrometer, for the on-site monitoring of the degradation of concrete-based structures by atmospheric and environmental factors. The main results of our investigation evidence that most of the amorphous and crystal materials involved in Carbonation and Sulphate Sttack (the main deterioration processes of cement-based materials) can be detected and distinguished with the use of the Raman spectroscopy. The main wave numbers and changes in the relevant chemical phases (CO₃^2–, SiO₄²⁻, SO₄²⁻ etc.) which generally occur under these durability attacks were discussed and summarized. The proposed approach may open new perspectives in the field of structural health monitoringand suggests a powerful instrument to investigate the relevant processes connected with the degradation processes (and the underlying chemical reactions) caused by atmospheric and environmental factors.