How do sulphates attack a concrete construction?
The most common occurrence of sulphate attack can take the form of progressive loss of strength. Up to 0.1 percent sulphates in soils and 1500 PPM in water can be tolerated. If present in greater quantities, sulphates cause the deterioration of concrete. Sulphates change the chemistry of concrete, combining with the calcium aluminates present in it, to cause an expansion that results in cracks. Deterioration due to seawater is not stop limited to buildings in close proximity to the sea alone. Moisture from the sea is carried on to the surrounding land by the winds, and thus the chemicals also affect the buildings along coastal regions.
