Effect of Admixed Micelles on the Microstructure Alterations of Reinforced Mortar Subjected to Chloride Induced Corrosion

This paper reports the main results from the influence of the initially admixed nano-aggregates (0.5g/l PEO113-b-PS70 micelles previously dissolved in demi-water) on microstructural alterations of the reinforced mortar subjected to chloride induced corrosion. The morphology of hydration/corrosion products at the steel/cement paste interface and in the bulk matrix of the reinforced mortar, and the surface of the steel reinforcement were observed by Environmental SEM (ESEM) combined with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX); the microstructural properties of the mortar i.e. porosity, pore size distribution, were investigated by quantitative image analysis. The results reveal that the microstructure of the cement matrix was altered by the combined effect of penetrated chlorides, initiated corrosion and the admixed micelles. The EDX analysis and morphological observation of the steel surface indicate that the admixed micelles can contribute to the formation of a more homogenous layer on the steel surface and cause delay of corrosion initiation