Performance evaluation of concrete liners for high-temperature potash brine applications

Engineering Services Delivered

In support of a potash mining corporation, we conducted a targeted evaluation of liner systems intended for reinforced concrete structures operating in challenging service environments. The objective was to determine the most effective protective lining solution to ensure long-term durability and structural integrity.

Commercial liners were applied to reinforced concrete specimens and subjected to prolonged exposure in a controlled environment simulating field conditions. The program was structured in two phases: an initial screening phase to evaluate candidate liner systems under simulated service exposure, followed by a detailed characterization phase focused on degradation mechanisms and barrier behaviour.

Phase 1 included specimen preparation, controlled brine exposure, visual inspection, resistance testing, hardness testing, and pull-off adhesion testing. The sequence progressed from non-destructive to destructive methods so severely damaged systems could be screened out early while stronger candidates received more detailed evaluation.

Phase 2 extended the methodology through scanning electron microscopy, SEM-EDS elemental analysis, optical profilometry, FTIR spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and microscale chloride profiling. This combination of techniques enabled assessment of surface morphology, chemical modification, topographic evolution, and near-surface transport behaviour relevant to long-term liner durability.

This structured, multi-stage testing approach enabled the elimination of underperforming candidates and ensured the selection of the most suitable solution based on overall material performance and compatibility.

Core Outcomes

• Designed a two-phase evaluation program for liner systems exposed to simulated high-temperature potash brine conditions.
• Applied progressive screening methods including visual, electrical, mechanical, and adhesion-based testing on concrete-mounted liner specimens.
• Combined microscopic, spectroscopic, and transport-focused techniques to assess surface integrity, chemical change, and barrier behaviour.
• Generated a practical methodology for comparative evaluation of protective liner systems in aggressive industrial environments.

The work delivered a robust testing and characterization approach to support infrastructure protection strategies and liner assessment in corrosive brine service environments.