Determination on pore size distribution by a probabilistic porous network subjected to salt precipitation and dissolution

Abstract

Abstract Pore system strongly affects durability of building materials. Therefore, representative models for pore system and evolution of the pore system during aging are important for understanding physical processes that affect durability of building materials. In this study, a porous network model was developed based on a probabilistic method to describe pore size distribution, and three transformation laws were employed to establish relationship between the initial pore sizes and modified pore sizes (after salt precipitation and dissolution) regarding the waterfront. Proposed model illustrated evolution of pore size distribution due to salt precipitation and dissolution based on overall porosity and water saturation degree. Moreover, the model can be used to implement the filling/emptying ratio of pores at vicinity of waterfront. Successive transformations were introduced into the model to illustrate evolution of pore size distribution due to long-term salt intrusion. Lastly, parametric studies on the model were performed to further elucidate the modifications on pore size distribution due to salt precipitation and dissolution.