Advanced spectroscopic and microscopic insights into cement biodeterioration in sulfur-rich sewer systems
Résumé
The biodeterioration of cementitious materials within sewer networks remains a critical problem that compromises the structural integrity and lifespan of these infrastructures essential to water treatment. This study pioneers the use of micro-Raman spectroscopic mapping, coupled with chemometric tools, to investigate the impact of high H 2 S levels and bacterial activity on high-resistance cementitious matrices (CEM V and CAC) over a fouryear period. The research aims to assess how severe environmental conditions affect these materials and identify the resulting phases formed. By utilizing this pioneering approach, the study reveals notable differences in behavior between cement types, with the presence of gypsum, bayerite, native sulfur, and CaCO 3 polymorphs in the altered layers. Raman spectroscopy, combined with chemometrics techniques, facilitated the identification of distinct microstructural zones within the specimens. Complementary SEM-EDS analysis provided consistent insights into element distribution and micro-texture changes, confirming degradation mechanisms and highlighting the material's resistance or susceptibility to aggressive environments.