Analytical study on disintegration of concrete

Abstract

Making of concrete has been an easy process with the new construction chemicals evolving. But breaking the same concrete is a challenge. Reasons may be due to the major focus of researchers and industry focusing only making which is half of the life cycle of any product. This raised a great challenge to the construction industry by utilizing the virgin materials instead of reusing the scrap as it does not suit the requirements. Present methods of breaking concrete, i.e., drilling, chiseling, hammering, high-pressure water blasting explosives, etc., are not giving the material in a form that is good for reuse in concrete making. Concrete consists of aggregates which are approximately in 70% volume can be retained to recycle and reuse if the mechanism is scientifically rather than that of mechanical. This paper focuses on the possibility of disintegrating concrete by analytically exploring concrete chemistry. Calcium, silicate, hydrate (C–S–H) bond which binds the constituent materials is to be weakened to disintegrate concrete. Earlier studies on chemical attack on concrete state that the effect is visible and is progressive. An attempt is made in this study to understand that C–S–H bond can be weakened intentionally at a pace rather than that of its own. Chemical and biological agent’s effect on the bond is to be envisaged. Results of the analytical studies will open up a new dimension in the reverse engineering in concrete technology.