Determination of hardened binder initial composition
A new method based on the carbon isotope 14C/12C ratio determination can be used for the characterization of binder contents in hardened structures.
1 Introduction
In civil engineering practice, one frequently encounters questions about the causes of failure or malfunctions of construction parts i.e. of the materials of which they are composed. Those questions come not only from investors, but also from other parties involved in building construction and maintenance. The prime concern is the quality and quantity of the materials used for a particular malfunctioning construction part and the expense in time, human labor and materials needed to restore its full functionality. These questions are difficult to answer with certainty and there is...
