Protection of Concrete Structures in the Interstitial Space of Industrial Chimneys Against the Effects of Condensate

Michal Pesata; Oldrich Sucharda; Vlastimil Bilek

doi:10.2478/cee-2026-0106

Protection of Concrete Structures in the Interstitial Space of Industrial Chimneys Against the Effects of Condensate

Civil and Environmental Engineering

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By: Michal Pesata, Oldrich Sucharda and Vlastimil Bilek

Open Access

|May 2026

Abstract

This article focuses on determining the extent of damage and the possible protection methods for concrete structures located in the interstitial spaces of modern industrial chimneys exposed to aggressive condensate. The first part assesses the process and degree of concrete degradation and the chemical composition of the condensate. The second part evaluates the resistance of selected materials, both directly within the chimney environment and under laboratory conditions simulated using data obtained from the chimney inspection. Basic laboratory tests included compressive and bending strength. A total of four materials were selected for experimental programs: a screed based on slag sulfate cement (SSC), sulfate-resistant cement (SV), epoxy concrete (EPX), and ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC). Samples based on epoxy concrete clearly demonstrated the best performance, exhibiting also virtually minimal loss in strength.

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Articles in this issue

DOI: https://doi.org/10.2478/cee-2026-0106 | Journal eISSN: 2199-6512 (formerly 1336-5835) | Journal ISSN: 1336-5835

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Language: English

Submitted on: Jan 19, 2026

Accepted on: Apr 2, 2026

Published on: May 21, 2026

Published by: University of Žilina

In partnership with: Paradigm Publishing Services

Publication frequency: 4 issues per year

Keywords:

Industrial chimney,

Flue gas desulfurization condensate,

Protection of concrete against aggressive (acid) condensate

Related subjects:

Business and economics,

Business management,

Industries,

Environmental management

© 2026 Michal Pesata, Oldrich Sucharda, Vlastimil Bilek, published by University of Žilina
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

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