Corrosion Caused by Sulfur Dioxide in Reinforced Concrete

Abstract

The burning of fuel oil with high sulfur content in diverse industrial segments results in the generation of oxidized sulfur compounds (SOx). These emissions, directly or indirectly, lead to the deterioration of air quality with consequences including the development of lung diseases in the surrounding population, the generation of acid rain and damage to civil constructions, such as public buildings, public squares, historic monuments, bridges, etc. This article describes the mechanisms of corrosion that occur in reinforced concrete deterioration observed in an industrial plant by the action of direct emissions of sulfur dioxide. SO2 in this case study is from the burning of fuel oil high sulfur content from chimney of an industrial boiler. The deterioration of concrete was evaluated in the laboratory showing the formation of calcium sulfate and calcium sulfate hydrate associated with aluminum oxide (Al2O3) and calcium oxide (CaO).