Chloride transport in concrete subjected to multiple cracks under drying-wetting cycles

The existence of multiple cracks accelerates chloride ion penetration within damaged concrete, substantially shortening the lifespan of the structure. Therefore, this paper conducts an in-depth analysis of chloride migration mechanisms in cracked concrete subjected to multiple cracks under drying-wetting cycles. Firstly, a series of accelerated chloride diffusion experiments were conducted on prestressed concrete beams subjected to multiple cracks. The analysis examines how crack width, depth, and density affect chloride concentration distribution. Then, a chloride diffusion coefficient prediction model incorporating the effects of multiple cracks was established using the crack interaction function and verified through experimental data. Finally, this paper explored the distribution patterns of chloride concentration and convection zones in concrete subjected to multiple cracks under various environmental conditions. The experimental results showed that crack width exerts the strongest effect on chloride diffusion, followed by crack depth, while crack density has the smallest impact. At the same depth of diffusion, the chloride concentration in concrete specimens with crack width of 0.3 mm increased by 45 % and 25 % on average compared with those with crack width of 0.1 mm and 0.2 mm, respectively. The dry-wet time ratio and initial moisture saturation significantly affect chloride concentration distribution, with the depth of the convection zone showing a negative correlation with initial moisture saturation.