Good reinforced concrete in the Arabian Gulf

The paper gives an overview of materials and procedures necessary to achiev e durable concrete in the Gulf Area. Given that hydrated Portland cement is the fundamental element in durability problems, the need for inclusion of other cementitious materials in the mix is discussed. Following a brief men tion of special aspects of the Gulf Area, the paper considers the climate a nd local exposure conditions of individual structures. The rate of progress of various deleterious reactions is discussed. The need for maintenance is stressed and maintenance procedures are described. Action in response to p roblems, including decision on repairs, and the competence of investigators are discussed. Causes of deterioration are reviewed. There follows a discu ssion of the need for appropriate quality of aggregate and mix water, a sat isfactory cover to reinforcement and proper curing. In conclusion, it is st ressed that every detail from design to the finished structure has to be ne ar-perfect in order to achieve good reinforced concrete in the Gulf Area.