Mesoscale Simulation of Chloride Ion Diffusion in Five-phase Recycled Aggregate Concrete

Zhihang Zhang; Ruixue Zhao; Ruiqi Zhao

doi:10.6919/ICJE.202504_11(4).0020

Authors

Zhihang Zhang
Ruixue Zhao
Ruiqi Zhao

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6919/ICJE.202504_11(4).0020

Keywords:

Recycled Aggregate Concrete; COMSOL Multiphysics; Chloride Diffusion; Finite Elements; Numerical Modelling.

Abstract

The durability of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) is a critical issue when using RAC in construction. Among various factors, reinforcement erosion due to chloride ion penetration is the main determinant of RAC durability. In this study, the chloride ion diffusion in RAC was systematically investigated using the COMSOL multiphysics finite element method. The RAC was described by a five-phase model, including natural aggregate, old interfacial transition zone, old mortar, new interfacial transition zone, and new mortar. The region consisting of natural aggregate, old interfacial transition zone and old mortar is called recycled aggregate. The results showed that the distribution of recycled aggregate had little effect on the diffusion of chloride ions in the RAC. The old mortar and the old interfacial transition zone, on the other hand, effectively contributed to the diffusion of chloride ions in the RAC. This effect was attributed to the porous characteristics of the old mortar and the old interfacial transition zone. An increase in the water-cement ratio significantly promoted the diffusion of chloride ions in the RAC. These results provide valuable information on the utilization of recycled aggregates, thus paving an effective path for the sustainable development in the construction industry.

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