Removal of a degraded concrete layer with emphasis on the surface optimization before application of repair material

Abstract

The contribution is aimed at destructive effects of a high-velocity water jet, used as a tool removing the corroded and degraded layers of concrete. Application of water jets for preparation of surfaces on the undamaged concrete core during reconstructions is one of the most common and safe destruction actions on structures, in particular when vibrations can induce some fissures in the undamaged parts of concrete. The removing process was studied on artificially prepared degraded concrete layers both theoretically and experimentally. The tests were designed so that the results could be consequently used for applications during repair actions on concrete constructions damaged by gaseous carbon and sulphur oxides, water during its phase changes and after several cycles of chemical defrosting substances application. The most important up-to-date result is the evaluation of a methodology for determination of both degraded and subsequently finished concrete surface. Keywords