Evaluation of lithium-based silicate coatings for concrete durability using Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy

Evaluation of lithium-based silicate coatings for concrete durability using Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy

Abstrakt

Portland cement production and the concrete industry significantly contribute to CO₂ emissions. Due to the limited lifetime of concrete structures and their exposure to aggressive environmental conditions, sustainable solutions for extending their durability are needed. One possible approach is using lithium-based alkaline silicate coatings (LiWS). These coatings improve the mechanical properties and environmental resistance of both new and aged concrete surfaces. LiWS penetrates deep into the concrete due to the small solvation layer of lithium ions and the low viscosity of the solution, forming a calcium-silicate-hydrate (CSH) gel that strengthens the material. However, analyzing the penetration depth of lithium ions is challenging using conventional SEM-EDS techniques. Therefore, this study uses laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) to evaluate the interaction between the LiWS sealer and the concrete substrate. LIBS is a fast, flexible, and micro-destructive method suitable for detecting light elements like lithium and providing spatially resolved analysis. To validate the results, LIBS data will be compared with other analytical techniques. These methods offer different advantages and limitations, but none of them are as effective as LIBS for lithium detection in solid samples. The findings of this research will contribute to optimizing LiWS coatings for improved concrete durability and sustainability.

Portland cement production and the concrete industry significantly contribute to CO₂ emissions. Due to the limited lifetime of concrete structures and their exposure to aggressive environmental conditions, sustainable solutions for extending their durability are needed. One possible approach is using lithium-based alkaline silicate coatings (LiWS). These coatings improve the mechanical properties and environmental resistance of both new and aged concrete surfaces. LiWS penetrates deep into the concrete due to the small solvation layer of lithium ions and the low viscosity of the solution, forming a calcium-silicate-hydrate (CSH) gel that strengthens the material. However, analyzing the penetration depth of lithium ions is challenging using conventional SEM-EDS techniques. Therefore, this study uses laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) to evaluate the interaction between the LiWS sealer and the concrete substrate. LIBS is a fast, flexible, and micro-destructive method suitable for detecting light elements like lithium and providing spatially resolved analysis. To validate the results, LIBS data will be compared with other analytical techniques. These methods offer different advantages and limitations, but none of them are as effective as LIBS for lithium detection in solid samples. The findings of this research will contribute to optimizing LiWS coatings for improved concrete durability and sustainability.

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy; LIBS; lithium silicate coating; concrete

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy; LIBS; lithium silicate coating; concrete

HOLCMANOVÁ, L.; MARKUSÍK, D.; PROCHAZKA, D.; OPRAVIL, T.; POŘÍZKA, P.; KAISER, J.

978-80-214-6358-5

Book of abstracts of the 5th International Symposium on Advanced Measurement, Analysis and Control for Energy and Environment