Work

Towards durability zonation of concrete structures under regional atmospheric exposure conditions in Asia

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Asia products more than half of the concrete, faces severe infrastructure durability challenges impacting sustainability. This study implements a Durability Environmental Zonation (DEZ) framework to assess carbonation risk under general atmospheric conditions. Using ERA5 and CMIP6 climate data, we presented 50-year carbonation depths across Asia. Zonation was achieved by comparing the carbonation depth with a standard 40 mm concrete cover thickness, defining a classification factor ( β ) to delineate five risk grades: Mild ( β < 0.5), Light (0.5 ≤ β < 0.8), Moderate (0.8 ≤ β < 1.0), Severe (1.0 ≤ β < 1.3), and Very Severe ( β ≥ 1.3). Under the SSP245 scenario, Severe and Very Severe zones expand significantly; the V (Very Severe) area may increase over 30 % by century's end, especially in South/Southeast Asia. This provides a critical reference for location-specific concrete design and climate adaptation. • Proposes a zonation methodology combining environment action with structure resistance. • Asia's atmospheric exposure concrete structures durability zonation is established. • Temperature primarily drives carbonation; CO 2 concentration secondarily. • Mitigating global carbon emissions decelerates carbonation processes in concrete structures.

Source: Developments in the Built Environment

DOI: 10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100817

Authors: Zimiao Wang, Yuxi Zhao, Hairong Wu, Weiliang Jin

Institutions: Zhejiang University, Henan University of Urban Construction

Language: English

Topic: Concrete Corrosion and Durability

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,230