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Carbonation Test

Carbonation in concrete occurs when carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere penetrates the concrete and reacts with calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)₂] to form calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). While CaCO₃ formation is not inherently harmful, the process significantly reduces the alkalinity of concrete, lowering the pH and making the embedded steel reinforcement vulnerable to corrosion especially in the presence of moisture and oxygen.

This test is typically conducted in-situ using a phenolphthalein indicator solution, which provides a visual assessment of carbonation depth. Non-carbonated concrete (alkaline) turns pink or purple, while carbonated areas remain colorless.

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