1. Concrete pipes are susceptible to chemical and biogenic attacks, as well as freeze–thaw, corrosion, and abrasion damage.
2. The primary methods for increasing durability of concrete pipes include using low alumina cement, using only sulfate-free aggregates and additives, incorporating pozzolanic materials, decreasing water-to-cement (w/c) ratio and ensuring proper mixing and workmanship.
3. Carbonation of fresh concrete can lead to accelerated setting of cement paste and rapid strength gain.
The article is generally reliable in its discussion of the durability of concrete pipes subjected to combined steam and carbonation curing. It provides a comprehensive overview of the potential threats to concrete pipes from chemical and biogenic attacks, freeze–thaw damage, corrosion, and abrasion damage. It also outlines the primary methods for increasing durability such as using low alumina cement, sulfate-free aggregates and additives, incorporating pozzolanic materials, decreasing water-to-cement (w/c) ratio and ensuring proper mixing and workmanship. Furthermore, it discusses the advantages of carbonation curing at early age such as accelerated setting of cement paste and rapid strength gain.
The article does not appear to be biased or one-sided in its reporting; it presents both sides equally by discussing both the potential benefits of carbonation curing as well as the potential risks associated with long term exposure to atmospheric CO2 such as reduction in pH leading to reinforcement corrosion and paste shrinkage leading to cracking. The article also cites relevant sources for its claims which adds credibility to its arguments.
However, there are some points that could have been explored further in the article such as possible counterarguments or alternative solutions that could be employed for improving durability performance of concrete pipes other than those mentioned in the article. Additionally, more evidence could have been provided for some of the claims made in order to further strengthen their validity.