AN UNUSUAL EXAMPLE OF CONCRETE CORROSION, INDUCED BY SULPHUR BACTERIA IN A SEWER

摘要

The effect on concrete of the unusual environment found in the main sewer at Burton-on-Trent has been assessed. Concrete cubes made with ordinary Portland cement and with sulphate-resisting Portland cement and other concrete test pieces have been exposed in the sewer for two years and rapid deterioration has been found. This is shown to be due to sulphuric acid generated by bacterial activity. This corrosion is compared with that found in warmer climates.