Degradation Behaviour of Limestone Concrete Under Limited Time Sodium Exposure

Abstract

Sodium leak on concrete structures lead to substantial damage due to thermal and chemical attack. Limestone concrete is widely used on floor, housing sodium components. The present study focuses on degradation behavior of limestone concrete under limited time exposure at 550°C in open air. The reduction in its compressive strength after interaction with liquid sodium was about 29%. Chemical analysis of sodium exposed specimen confirmed a bulk penetration of sodium up to 20 mm depth with localized penetration of 44 mm. A sacrificial limestone concrete layer of 50 mm thickness on structural concrete is recommended for sodium handling areas, for half an hour sodium exposure.