• Journal of the Korea Institute of Building Construction
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• v.24 no.5
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• pp.541-552
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• 2024

This study introduces a new analytical model known as the Cellular Automaton Method(CAM) designed to predict the degree of deterioration in concrete, taking into account its complex pore structure. The CAM model assesses the impacts of moisture migration, driven by capillary action and pressure differentials at the gas-liquid interface, which are influenced by the distribution of pores. It also evaluates how porosity and diffusion coefficients affect the penetration of chloride ions. The model's application revealed distinct moisture movement patterns in concrete structures, distinguishing between those with porosity levels below and above 40 percent. Additionally, it facilitated a comparison and analysis of chloride ion diffusion phenomena, based on diffusion coefficients in areas penetrated by moisture, against results obtained from the Finite Element Method(FEM). The comparison showed a maximum deviation of only 0.989 percent between the predicted outcomes of the FEM and CAM, demonstrating substantial agreement and validating CAM's efficacy in simulating the diffusion processes of chloride ions within concrete under actual salt damage conditions. Thus, CAM proves to be a reliable tool for modeling and anticipating deterioration in concrete structures exposed to saline environments.