Use of image analysis for durability testing of sulfur concrete and Portland cement concrete

Sulfur concrete was prepared by using the following initial components: sand as an aggregate, modified sulfur binder, and alumina as a filler. Portland cement concrete was made of the same aggregate, cement and water. The durability of prepared concrete samples was tested in 10% solution of HCl as a function of immersion time. The changes in mechanical strength and mass of the samples were periodically measured. Sulfur concrete exhibited limited mechanical strength and mass loss, while physico-mechanical properties of Portland cement concrete regressed rapidly. The image analysis used for surface destruction monitoring, performed by Image Pro Plus Program for determination of damaged surface area and original surface area before acid resistance testing, showed the similar results. Based on the image analysis results, model for predicting the mechanical strength degradation during durability testing was presented. The fact that calculated and experimental strength values were not far apart proved the validity of the proposed model.

► Durability of sulfur concrete and Portland cement concrete was tested in 10% HCl.
► Surface destruction during the testing was monitored.
► Photographs and optical microscopy micrographs were analyzed by image analysis.
► Model for predicting mechanical strength degradation during the testing was given.