Controlling pH in concrete production presents significant technical challenges, with typical Portland cement mixtures generating highly alkaline environments (pH >12.5) during hydration. These elevated pH levels can trigger alkali-silica reactions (ASR), affect reinforcement durability, and impact the long-term performance of concrete structures. Measurements show that even small variations in pH can lead to substantial changes in concrete properties and durability.

The fundamental challenge lies in maintaining optimal pH levels throughout the curing process while preserving the essential mechanical properties and workability of the concrete mixture.

This page brings together solutions from recent research—including microencapsulated phosphoric acid systems for controlled pH management, alumina-modified colloidal silica applications, specialized pH sensors for real-time monitoring, and innovative low-pH cement formulations. These and other approaches focus on practical implementation strategies that can be integrated into existing concrete production processes while meeting industry standards for strength and durability.

1. Alkali-Activated Hydraulic Binders with Aluminum-Modified Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag

ECOCEM MATERIALS LTD, 2025

Alkali-activated hydraulic binders comprising ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) that reduce alkali-silica reaction (ASR) in concrete and mortar by incorporating specific aluminum sources. The binders contain precursors containing silica, such as GGBS, which form a stable, pH-neutral phase that inhibits ASR. This approach enables the production of concrete and mortar with reduced ASR, improved durability, and lower water demand compared to conventional Portland cement-based materials.

2. Chlorine-Fixing Admixture for Fly Ash Concrete with Sodium Silicate and Calcium Nitrate Components

WEIFANG POWER SUPPLY COMPANY STATE GRID SHANDONG ELECTRIC POWER CO, 2024

A chlorine-fixing early-strength admixture for fly ash concrete that prevents chloride ion corrosion. The admixture combines sodium silicate, calcium nitrate, triisopropanolamine, triethanolamine, and sodium thiocholate to form a hydrated calcium silicate gel suspension. This suspension is then reacted with a sulfamate water-reducing agent to produce a solid chlorine-precipitated early-strength admixture. The resulting admixture exhibits enhanced chloride ion resistance and early strength properties in fly ash concrete.

CN119219356A-patent-drawing

3. Electrochemical Treatment System for Reinforced Concrete with Controlled Current Density and pH Management

DENKA CO LTD, 2024

Electrochemical treatment management for reinforced concrete structures containing steel reinforcement. The method controls current density and pH to prevent chloride-induced reinforcement damage through optimized treatment parameters. The treatment involves controlling the total alkali content, pH, and current density to prevent chloride penetration and reinforcement corrosion. The treatment parameters are measured during and immediately after current passage, with specific thresholds for pH and total alkali content.

JP2024082755A-patent-drawing

4. Concrete Alkali Suppressor Composition with Metakaolin, Fly Ash, Nano-Silica, Silane Coupling Agent, Graphene Oxide, Polyurethane Resin, Expansion Agent, and Water-Reducing Agent

UNIV XIAN TECHNOLOGY, 2024

Concrete alkali suppressor for concrete efflorescence control, comprising metakaolin, fly ash, nano-silica, silane coupling agent, graphene oxide, polyurethane resin, expansion agent, and water-reducing agent. The formulation provides effective suppression of efflorescence while maintaining concrete workability and strength. The suppressor is optimized to achieve a balance between alkali neutralization and concrete performance.

CN117776590A-patent-drawing

5. Low-pH Concrete Composition with Shrinkage-Reducing Admixture, Water-Reducing Agent, and Calcium Chloride for Controlled pH Stability

CHINA WATER HUAIHE PLANNING DESIGN AND RES CO LTD, 2023

Low-pH concrete for nuclear waste repositories that achieves stable pH control during construction while maintaining high-performance mechanical properties. The concrete combines a shrinkage-reducing admixture with a water-reducing agent and calcium chloride to prevent excessive pH rise. It incorporates dense silica fume for enhanced pozzolanic activity, polypropylene fibers for improved crack resistance, and a medium-grade sand-gravel aggregate blend. The resulting concrete maintains a stable pH below 11 during construction while meeting the requirements for high-performance concrete in nuclear applications.

6. Concrete Manufacturing Apparatus with Integrated Recovered Water Alkali Activation System

KOREA ADVANCED INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, 2023

Concrete manufacturing apparatus for producing alkali-activated concrete through the use of recovered water as an alkali activator. The apparatus integrates a concrete mixer, a recovery tank containing waste water, an admixture injection system, and a pH meter. The recovery tank collects water from the concrete production process, which is then measured and controlled by the pH meter to maintain optimal pH levels for the alkali activator. The recovered water is then used as an alkali activator in the concrete production process, replacing traditional alkali activators and eliminating the need for separate equipment or water treatment systems.

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7. Concrete Composition with Low-Alkalinity Cement, Sea Sand, and Phosphogypsum for Fiber-Reinforced Composites

GUANGZHOU INST TECH, 2023

Low-alkali concrete for fiber-reinforced composite structures that achieves high strength and durability in low-alkali environments. The concrete formulation comprises a cement with low alkalinity, coarse aggregate, sea sand, seawater, phosphogypsum mineral admixture, and a water-reducing agent. The mixture undergoes controlled heat treatment to enhance the cement's hydration and strength properties while maintaining a pH below 10.4. This formulation enables the production of fiber-reinforced composite bars with improved resistance to etching in low-alkali concrete environments.

8. Colloidal Silica Nanoparticles with Alumina Coating and Defined Size Range

INTELLIGENT CONCRETE LLC, 2023

Alumina-modified colloidal silica nanoparticles that mitigate Alkali Silica Reaction (ASR) in cementitious compositions, and methods of using the nanoparticles to produce improved cementitious compositions. The nanoparticles have diameters of about 3 nm to about 100 nm, with a coating of at least 0.03% alumina, and are present in an aqueous solution. The nanoparticles are effective in reducing ASR in concrete by controlling the hydration reactions of cement, and enhance the compressive and flexural strength of formed cementitious articles.

9. Concrete pH Sensor with Alpha Cellulose-Nile Blue Complex and Integrated Spectrometer System

UNIVERSITY OF SEOUL INDUSTRY COOPERATION FOUNDATION, University of Seoul Industry-University Cooperation Foundation, 2022

Concrete pH sensor for accurate carbonation monitoring in high-alkali environments. The sensor combines alpha cellulose and Nile Blue to create a stable, water-soluble organic matter that maintains pH accuracy even in extreme conditions. The sensor's covalent bonding ensures reliable measurement of concrete pH without alkali error, enabling precise carbonation detection. The sensor incorporates a light source and spectrometer for continuous pH measurement, while a stopper prevents external carbonic acid entry. The system is controlled by an operation unit connected to a spectrometer, enabling real-time data analysis.

10. Concrete Composition with Microencapsulated Phosphoric Acid for Controlled pH Management

HANGZHOU SANZHONG NEW BUILDING MATERIALS TECHNOLOGY CO LTD, 2022

Low-alkali ecological concrete with enhanced plant growth potential through controlled pH management. The innovative preparation method involves incorporating a controlled release of phosphoric acid encapsulated in microcapsules within the cement matrix. These microcapsules, formed through a polymerization reaction involving methacrylic acid and methyl acrylate, release their phosphoric acid content as the cement hydrates. This controlled acid release creates a pH gradient within the concrete, with the phosphoric acid acting as a natural buffering agent to maintain optimal pH levels. The microcapsules' encapsulation mechanism prevents premature acid release, ensuring a gradual pH adjustment that supports plant growth while maintaining concrete strength.

11. Multi-Span Frame-Based Electrode Array System for Monitoring Concrete Neutralization Degree

TONGJI UNIVERSITY, 2021

A structural design method for monitoring the neutralization degree of concrete through a multi-span frame-based electrode array system. The system comprises a sheet pH electrode, a reference electrode, and a frame made of corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel, titanium alloy, or carbon fiber. The frame is divided into multiple spans with angled sections, with the electrode and reference electrode positioned at the center of each span. The electrodes are fixed at the frame's center points while maintaining a uniform horizontal position, ensuring optimal measurement accuracy and minimizing interference from the electrode and installation accessories.

12. Concrete Additive Comprising Water-Quenched and Lithium Slag for Chloride Ion Adsorption

ECONOMIC TECH RESEARCH INSTITUTE STATE GRID XINJIANG ELECTRIC POWER CO, 2019

A chloride ion adsorption additive for concrete that improves its resistance to chloride ions while maintaining workability and mechanical properties. The additive is derived from waste materials from steel and lithium production, specifically a water-quenched slag and lithium slag, which are combined in a controlled ratio to produce a lithium-based chloride ion adsorbent. This additive enhances chloride ion removal capabilities in concrete while preserving its structural integrity and workability.

13. Concrete Composition Incorporating Silica-Based Polycarboxylate Polymer, Colloidal Silicic Acid, and Magnesium-Calcium Oxide Additives

Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education Emperor Alexander I St. Petersburg State Transport University, EMPEROR ALEXANDER I ST PETERSBURG STATE TRANSPORT UNIVERSITY, FEDERALNOE GOSUDARSTVENNOE BYUDZHETNOE OBRAZOVATELNOE UCHREZHDENIE VYSSHEGO OBRAZOVANIYA PETERBURGSKIJ GOSUDARSTVENNYJ UNIVERSITET PUTEJ SOOBSHCHENIYA IMPERATORA ALEKSANDRA I, 2019

High-strength concrete with enhanced tensile strength and corrosion resistance through the incorporation of a novel silica-based composition. The composition comprises a polycarboxylate polymer (WRM) solution with a pH of 6.0, a colloidal solution of silicic acid with pH 3.5, and a complex additive containing magnesium oxide with 42.5% and calcium oxide with 3.3%. These components, when combined with Portland cement, blast furnace slag, and water, form a super-total effect that significantly increases concrete strength, particularly under bending conditions, while also exhibiting enhanced corrosion resistance.

14. Cement Matrix with pH-Sensitive Hydrogel Encapsulation and Controlled Aggregate Distribution

Chang'an University, CHANGAN UNIVERSITY, 2019

A cement-based material with enhanced frost resistance and wear properties for road construction. The material comprises a pH-sensitive hydrogel encapsulated within a cement matrix, where the hydrogel is formulated to absorb and retain moisture. This hydrogel network prevents water from entering the cement matrix, thereby reducing the expansion pressure generated during freeze-thaw cycles. The cement matrix itself contains a controlled aggregate content, with a specific particle size distribution and density, which contributes to the material's overall durability. The hydrogel network also provides improved abrasion resistance, making the material suitable for applications requiring both frost resistance and wear resistance.

15. Concrete Composition with Quartz, Cast Stone, and Ceramic Powder Admixture

SHIJIAZHUANG MINING AREA HONGYUAN CONCRETE MIXING CO LTD, 2019

Concrete with enhanced resistance to acid and alkali corrosion. The concrete comprises an admixture comprising 50-80% quartz powder, 5575 parts of cast stone powder, and 60-90 parts of ceramic powder. This composition provides superior resistance to both acidic and alkaline environments through the incorporation of these materials, which significantly improves the concrete's durability and performance compared to conventional concrete formulations.

CN109369137A-patent-drawing

16. Calcium Hydrate Silicate Gel with Enhanced Nanostructure Compatibility and Self-Repair Mechanism

ALI MOAZAMI, Mr. Ali Moazami, Ali Moazami, 2019

Calcium hydrate silicate gel (CSH) for sealing, protection, durability, and self-healing of nanostructured concrete. The gel, which exhibits enhanced compatibility with nanostructure molecules and voids, enables superior sealing, protection, durability, and self-repair of concrete. The gel's unique properties allow it to penetrate cracks and prevent chemical penetration, while its self-repair mechanism utilizes calcium lactate as a food source for bacteria. This innovative gel combines the benefits of nanostructured concrete with the durability and self-repair capabilities of bio-based materials.

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17. Method for pH Determination of Ecological Concrete via Chemical Composition Analysis

TIANJIN RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF BUILDING SCIENCE CO LTD, 2018

A method for determining the pH of ecological concrete that enables comprehensive evaluation of its environmental impact. The method measures the pH of ecological concrete through a comprehensive analysis of its chemical composition, including the concentration of alkali ions, cement content, and other critical parameters. This comprehensive approach provides a detailed understanding of the concrete's environmental compatibility, enabling informed selection of suitable plant species for ecological applications.

CN108445198A-patent-drawing

18. Concrete Alkali Agent with Integrated Alkali and Chloride-Reducing Components for Efflorescence Inhibition

JIANGSU MINGHE GROUP CO LTD, 2016

Concrete alkali agent for concrete that prevents efflorescence while maintaining mechanical properties. The agent contains a combination of alkali and chloride-reducing agents that inhibit efflorescence formation through controlled chloride release. This dual-action approach enables the agent to maintain concrete strength while preventing surface scaling.

19. Concrete Mix Design Method Incorporating Chloride Ion Permeability and Strength Index with Age-Related Attenuation Coefficient

GUANGXI UNIVERSITY, Guangxi University, 2015

A concrete mix design method for chloride resistance and strength that enables rational mix formulation for reinforced concrete structures. The method incorporates a novel chloride ion permeability and strength index that combines the critical chloride ion diffusion coefficient with the age-related attenuation coefficient. This comprehensive index provides a single parameter that quantifies both chloride ion permeability and the degradation rate of the concrete structure, enabling the design of concrete mixtures that balance these critical durability parameters.

20. Concrete Microcapsules with Alkaline Metal Oxide Coating on Polymer Matrix

SHENZHEN UNIVERSITY, 深圳大学, 2015

Concrete microcapsules for enhancing alkaline resistance in reinforced concrete, particularly in structures exposed to alkaline environments. The microcapsules contain a water-soluble alkaline metal oxide coating on a polymer matrix, which forms a protective barrier against corrosion when exposed to alkaline conditions. The coating is comprised of low-alkali sensitive organic materials that degrade in alkaline environments, while the polymer matrix provides structural integrity. The microcapsules can be prepared through spray drying, enabling efficient application to reinforced concrete structures.

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