Effect of carbonation on the performance of autoclaved aerated concrete

AbstractAnthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions contribute to the greenhouse effect and represent a major concern for environmental protection. Carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere range from 0.03 to 0.3%. Combustion of fossil fuels and deforestation are the main human activities that have led to increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide. Anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions can be reduced by making industrial use of the emitted carbon dioxide, notably in the production of construction products containing mineral binders. In the majority of published results of research on carbonation, the main focus of research was to examine the effect of carbonation on corrosion risk of reinforcement steel and the estimated service life of reinforced concrete structures. However, there are relatively few studies that analyze the effect of carbonation on matrices in composites based on mineral binders, including autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC). This paper presents preliminary results of studies to determine the influence of carbonation on the specific qualities of AAC linked to its durability. Structural research will also be presented to determine the levels of CO2 absorption and the degree of carbonation of AAC.