This paper presents a finite element model for simulating the transport beh
aviour of ions in a porous medium when a constant DC current density is app
lied through electrode pairs emplaced in the medium. The model is then appl
ied to predict the mass transport associated with electrochemical chloride
extraction from hydrated cement paste. Numerical results are compared with
those obtained in experiments of various duration. Effects of externally ap
plied current density, treatment period, diffusion coefficients, ionic bind
ing, boundary conditions and medium porosity on the efficiency of chloride
extraction are discussed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserve
d.