New sampling method to improve the reliability of FTIR analysis for Self-Compacting Concrete

Carbon dioxide uptake during concrete carbonation has become an emerging problem, as more attention is paid to sustainable development. Therefore an advanced test methods has been adopted to measure process of carbonation. A Fourier Transformation Infrared Spectroscopy analysis was applied to define a progress of carbonation in Self-Compacting Concrete. Two types of samples were studied - a typical cubic samples and crushed concrete. Samples were kept in carbonation chamber for 56, 112 and 168 days in controlled conditions. A new sampling method is presented in the paper. Applying the proposed procedure a deeper progress of carbonation process is revealed, when compared with a standard drilling technique. Achieved findings were verified with Termogravimetric Analysis/Differential Thermal Analysis.