Water-Soluble Epoxy Resins as an Innovative Method of Protecting Concrete Against Sulfate Corrosion

Sulfate corrosion is a significant durability issue for concrete used in sewage and hydraulic infrastructure. In sulfate-rich environments, the formation of expansive products (e.g., ettringite and thaumasite) leads to a progressive loss of performance. Unlike conventional protection methods, which rely on surface-applied coatings or impregnation, this study examines the use of water-dilutable epoxy resins as an internal, volume-wide admixture dispersed throughout the concrete matrix to provide whole-body protection. The experimental program evaluated the mechanical performance, microstructure, and sulfate ion ingress/penetration dynamics of resin-modified concretes. The results suggest that using the appropriate amount of resin can limit the penetration of aggressive ions and slow the harmful changes associated with sulfate attack while maintaining the material's overall performance. Overall, these findings suggest that water-based epoxy admixtures are a promising strategy for improving the durability of concrete in sulfate-exposed environments. They also provide guidance for designing more resistant cementitious materials for modern infrastructure applications.