In order to explore the chloride ion penetration law and the strengthening mechanism of coral aggregate concrete modified by superfine cement, capillary water absorption test, rapid iodine ion electromigration test, natural immersion test and field exposure test were carried out. The capillary water absorption performance and chloride ion penetration resistance of coral aggregate concrete before and after modification were compared and analyzed. The microstructure and element distribution of the interfacial transition zone of coral aggregate concrete were tested by scanning electron microscopy and energy spectrum analysis. The test results show that the cylinder compressive strength of the modified coral aggregate is increased by 69.2%, the 28 d compressive strength of the coral aggregate concrete is increased by 18.9%, the capillary water absorption coefficient is reduced by 42.1%, the chloride ion penetration depth is reduced by 42.9%, and the apparent chloride ion diffusion coefficient is reduced by 47.9%. The Ca/Si of the hydration products in the interfacial transition zone is significantly reduced, and the microstructure of the interfacial transition zone is denser. After the coral aggregate is modified by superfine cement, the pore channels inside the coral aggregate are effectively blocked, the chloride ion transmission path becomes more tortuous, and the apparent chloride ion diffusion coefficient of the coral aggregate concrete decreases.
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