The Effects of a Deicing Agent on the Absorption and Permeability of Various Concretes

The ultimate goal of this research is the development of test methods for the prediction of the frost durability of concrete. The absorption and permeability properties of three different precast concrete paving slabs andfive laboratory fabricated slabs were investigated using water and three different concentrations (2, 4, and 10 percent) of sodium chloride in water. Concrete parameters investigated included water/cement ratio, air entrainment, and method of slab manufacture. The absorptivity and permeability of the various concrete slabs appeared to be more affected by the water/cement ratio of the concretes than by either the salt solution concentration or air entrainment.