Influence of Salt Concentration, pH, and Temperature on the Carbon Steel Mortar’s Compressive Strength and Corrosion Rates

This study aims to specify the compressive strength and carbon steel’s corrosion rates in mortar form as a function of pH, temperature, and salt concentration. Soil was used to replace varying amounts of steel (10, 20, and 30 g) to produce mortar specimens, facilitating the determination of corrosion rates and compressive strength. Two sets of mortar were immersed in water for 7, 14, and 28 days for 90, 150, and 210 days. At the same time, samples were tested at temperatures (25, 50, 75, and 100°C) in the same time range and at four pHs. Additionally, sodium chloride (NaCl) at concentrations of 5 and 10 percent was added to mortar samples made with carbon steel. According to the research findings, a steel loading of 10 g provides the most significant improvement in compressive strength and, at the same time, reduces corrosion in the mortar samples. Also, the information shows a direct correlation. Both the compressive strength and corrosion rates increase with the length of time the material rests in water. The mortar specimens yielded the best results at pH 7, as it provided the most favorable balance between minimized corrosion rates and increased strength. Besides, the highest corrosion rate was observed between 75°C and 100°C, whereas the maximum compressive strength occurred at 50°C. The carbon steel samples with a 50% salt concentration and 28 and 90 days of immersion had the best compressive strength and the lowest corrosion rate. Lastly, compressive strength increased with curing time.