Title
The effect of an embedded cathode on lithium migration in mortar specimens
Author
Souza, L.M.S.
Polder, R.B.
Copuroglu, O.
Publication year
2017
Abstract
The currently available treatment techniques for concrete structures affected by alkali-silica reaction (ASR) are limited and electrochemical lithium migration has been proposed as an alternative. Lithium compounds have shown to have beneficial effects on ASR expansion when used as admixtures to fresh concrete. During the electrochemical treatment, lithium ions area transported into concrete (or mortar) by the action of an electrical field. The same principle is behind well-established techniques such as electrochemical chloride extraction (ECE). Like during ECE treatments, the reinforcement may be used as cathode during electrochemical lithium migration. In this paper, an investigation of the use of an embedded cathode during electrochemical lithium migration is presented. Mortar specimens were cast with embedded titanium meshes, which worked as cathodes. Results showed that potassium and sodium ions accumulated in the region around the embedded mesh and, under the tested conditions, few lithium ions reached that area. The accumulation of sodium and potassium is an undesirable side effect that increases the pH, which may possibly induce further ASR development, if not enough lithium ions reach the area.
Subject
TS - Technical Sciences
2015 Fluid & Solid Mechanics
2015 Urbanisation
Buildings and Infrastructures
Alkali-silica reaction
Cathode
Lithium
Migration
SR - Structural Reliability
To reference this document use:
http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:14015e8a-baaf-47e6-999d-949fc5eac036
TNO identifier
810217
Publisher
Delft University of Technology
ISSN
0046-7316
Source
Heron, 62 (62), 99-117
Document type
article