Research Article
Underestimated Chemical Risks in West African Soils:
The Role of Baumann-Gully Acidity in Concrete Durability
Joachim Dalohoun
,
Finagnon Crepin Alexis Togbe*,
Trall Zeynabou Ndao,
Egbemimon Daniel Ahlonsou,
Hubert Frederic Gbaguidi,
Yaye Kole,
Edmond Adjovi
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
53-60
Received:
15 May 2026
Accepted:
26 May 2026
Published:
2 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.jccee.20261103.11
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Views:
Abstract: The premature deterioration of concrete infrastructures in West Africa is frequently attributed to mechanical and environmental factors, while the role of chemical soil aggressiveness remains largely underestimated and insufficiently investigated. In many developing countries, geotechnical studies rarely include comprehensive chemical characterization of soils, despite its critical importance for long-term infrastructure durability. This study evaluates the relevance of Baumann-Gully acidity as a low-cost, reliable, and accessible indicator of soil aggressiveness toward concrete. A total of nine soil samples collected from various locations in Benin were analyzed using the standardized method EN 16502. The results revealed acidity values ranging from 165 to 257 mL/kg, indicating predominantly moderate to high aggressiveness levels. Notably, several samples exceeded the commonly accepted threshold associated with severe chemical attack risks. Graphical analysis further highlights the significance of these findings. The distribution of acidity values across sampling sites shows a consistent prevalence of aggressive conditions, while the histogram confirms a concentration of results within the upper range of aggressiveness. The boxplot analysis reveals a relatively high variability, with extreme values indicating localized zones of particularly high chemical risk. In addition, the relationship between depth and acidity suggests that aggressive conditions are not limited to surface soils but may persist across deeper layers, which has important implications for foundation design. These findings emphasize the critical need to systematically integrate chemical soil analysis into geotechnical investigations in developing countries. The study demonstrates that Baumann-Gully acidity is not only a practical and cost-effective tool, but also a scientifically relevant parameter for predicting soil-induced degradation of concrete. Its adoption could significantly improve infrastructure durability and reduce maintenance costs in resource-limited settings.
Abstract: The premature deterioration of concrete infrastructures in West Africa is frequently attributed to mechanical and environmental factors, while the role of chemical soil aggressiveness remains largely underestimated and insufficiently investigated. In many developing countries, geotechnical studies rarely include comprehensive chemical characterizat...
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Review Article
Multicriteria Review of the Compressive Strength Behavior of the Cement Concrete and Concrete with Ferrallitic Aggregate Replacement
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
61-79
Received:
24 April 2026
Accepted:
18 May 2026
Published:
12 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.jccee.20261103.12
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Concrete remains the most widely used construction material globally, with compressive strength serving as its primary performance indicator. In tropical regions such as Cameroon, the availability of ferrallitic (lateritic) soils presents an opportunity to develop cost-effective and sustainable alternatives to conventional concrete. However, the influence of these materials on compressive strength requires systematic evaluation. This study investigates the compressive strength of concrete produced with partial replacement of fine aggregates by ferrallitic materials. Concrete mixes were prepared with laterite replacement levels of 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50% at a constant water–cement ratio of 0.50. Standard cube specimens (150 mm × 150 mm × 150 mm) were cast, cured, and tested at 7, 14, and 28 days in accordance with ASTM standards. Results show that compressive strength decreases with increasing ferrallitic content. However, mixes with 10–30% replacement exhibited strength values comparable to conventional concrete, with optimal performance observed at approximately 20% replacement. Beyond 30%, a significant reduction in strength was recorded due to increased porosity and weaker interfacial bonding. The findings confirm that ferrallitic materials can be effectively utilized in structural concrete within controlled limits. The study concludes that partial replacement of fine aggregates with laterite (≤30%) is feasible for structural applications, contributing to sustainable construction practices. Recommendations are provided for optimal mix design and future research on durability and long-term performance.
Abstract: Concrete remains the most widely used construction material globally, with compressive strength serving as its primary performance indicator. In tropical regions such as Cameroon, the availability of ferrallitic (lateritic) soils presents an opportunity to develop cost-effective and sustainable alternatives to conventional concrete. However, the in...
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