Interaction between microclimate and concrete —a prerequisite for deterioration

This paper gives an overview of the present knowledge regarding the interaction between the climatic conditions at the concrete surface and the corresponding conditions inside the concrete. The phenomena dealt with are those involved in frost damage, frost and salt scaling and reinforcement corrosion, such as temperature and moisture conditions in the near surface regions, carbonation and chloride penetration. Data on the intensity, duration and frequency of the microclimatic conditions should be included. The interaction depends on material properties concerning various flow processes and binding of heat and substances transported in the concrete. It is of decisive importance to choose simplifications carefully depending on the required accuracy, available information and the effort to be put into the task.