Another export product of masterexim is sulphate resisting cement

In underground structures, the concrete part of the structure is exposed to subsurface influences such as permanent mechanical stresses and aggressive water.

However, concrete is known for its extraordinary durability.

Sulfate-containing solutions, such as natural or contaminated groundwater, have a significant effect on concrete. This can eventually lead to loss of strength, expansion, spalling of surface layers, and eventual separation.

With a proper mixing plan suitable for environmental chemical conditions and possible damage, the life cycle of concrete structure can be extended.

Sulfate present in water reacts with tricalcium aluminate hydrates (mainly AFm) in cement and causes the formation of eterngite (also under certain conditions, tomasite) which leads to an increase in volume.

This increase in volume leads to high internal pressure in the concrete structure, which causes cracking and flaking.

Such sulfate attack is classified among the types of chemical attacks under which standard concrete designed without special measures can suffer significant damages.

Field experience shows that the loss of adhesion and strength is usually more severe than the concrete damage caused by expansion and cracking.