Chloride ion and concrete

[Jacques.Read@eh.doe.gov]

The mechanism by which NaCl attacks concrete is by replacing some of the
hydroxyl ions in its structure.  It is the chloride ion, not the sodium ion in
NaCl that is responsible.  Hence, KCl would also corrode concrete, were it ever
to be used.  Ammonium nitrate and  urea are used in some applications to melt
ice while preserving the concrete (and nearby plants and lawn).



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