| Portland cement concrete is a popular construction material due to its unique engineering properties, economy and durability. In the recent past, however, concrete has not been as durable as it used to be. There are many reasons for modern concrete constructions such as bridge decks and parking structures to deteriorate prematurely. The current research project is aimed at identifying the factors that contribute to durability failure, understanding the nature of the current knowledge on concrete durability, and devising a solution that will diminish the potential for such problems.; A literature review was carried out to understand the mechanisms of durability failure and the factors affecting durability. It was found that the causes and mechanisms are well understood; however, transfer of this knowledge to practice has not been effective. Concrete materials knowledge resides in a large body of literature. Transferring this knowledge to the practitioners through a guidance system will reduce the majority of failures. The information system has to be computer based because of the large volumes of information that need to be linked.; A framework for a comprehensive durability knowledge system was developed to improve the durability of concrete. This is a knowledge-based information system and not intended to be a decision support system. The framework supports extensibility and flexibility to integrate new information, as it becomes available and to accommodate advances in information technology. The system was developed around a mix design program as every concrete application involves a mix design exercise. The architecture of the concrete design system includes a mix design program; a concrete analysis module, a materials database, a knowledge base and an Internet based information system.; A prototype of the concrete design system was implemented on the Microsoft Windows™ operating system using the object-oriented method and the C++ language. Further development is to be done through several iterations. The implementation is flexible in order to accommodate additional knowledge about durability and to adapt to new technologies such as Microsoft's new .NET architecture.; The system, known as ConcreteXP, currently produces mixtures that satisfy the CSA A23.1-00 durability requirements. It is believed that ConcreteXP will be an effective educational tool that will enhance concrete durability through technology transfer. |
