A Review of Laboratory Test and Interpretation Methods Regarding the Investigation of Concrete Behavior under Sulfate and Acid Attacks

In this study, an examination has been conducted on the factors of Sulfuric acid and sulfates that influence the process of concrete corrosion. Given that numerous concrete structures are subject to this form of corrosion, the most prevalent four simulated acidic and corrosive environment procedures, namely Immersion, Constant Sulfate, Constant pH, and Accelerated TAP Methods, have been reviewed. Ultimately, the techniques of X-ray diffraction, nuclear magnetic resonance, phenolphthalein solution, and scanning electron microscope have been delineated for the physical, mechanical, and microstructural analysis of the tested samples. In all of the aforementioned procedures, the utilization of an acidic or sulfate solution is unavoidable. Regulating the pH level of the solution and comparing it to the permissible range of the test standards enhances the reliability of the test results. Consequently, through the comparison of the aforementioned simulations of the acidic environment, it is apparent that the immersion test is less costly than the other tests, and this method necessitates simpler equipment for its execution.