Experimental Study on the Performance of Sustainable Epoxy Resin-Modified Concrete Under Coupled Salt Corrosion and Freeze–Thaw Cycles

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

This paper mainly focused on the performance and related mechanism of epoxy resin-modified concrete under the combined effects of salt erosion and freeze-thaw cycles. The authors have done comprehensive experiments on the concrete, but the mechanism study needs a further improvement. The following suggestions are provided for the authors to improve the manuscript.

1. There is something wrong with the reference citation, please correct the mistake.
2. Also the figure and table notations in the manuscript are meeting with an error, please correct.
3. The photos of concrete cracks in Figure 1 are taken by the authors or sourced from the Internet? The authorization should be clarified.
4. The innovation of this study different from the previous studies should be highlighted in the introduction section.
5. More latest research on improving the durability of concrete under the effects of salt erosion and freeze-thaw cycles should be involved in the introduction section for objectivity.
6. More detailed information about the experimental materials, especially about the epoxy resin and modified epoxy, should be given.
7. The magnification or plotting scale in Figure 5 and Figure 7 are better to be given to scientifically show the appearance of the concrete.
8. When it comes to the analysis of surface damage, the authors mentioned a concept of the proportion of surface holes. The measurement about how to calculate the proportion of surface holes should be given.
9. Why the relative mass evaluation parameters in Fig.10(a) and (b) show an increasing trend, while the curves in Fig.10(c) and (d) increased and then followed by a decline.
10. In Line 250-252, the authors illustrated that the addition of epoxy resin reduces internal porosity and enhances concrete compactness. Have you done porosity tests or any references to support the illustration?
11. As we know, the addition of epoxy resin has negative impact on compressive strength of concrete, and the increasing dosage of epoxy resin may has a more significant impact. So what about the compressive strength of concrete with different dosages of epoxy resin at early and later curing stages?
12. The error bars of flexural strength in Figure 14(a) and 15(a) are better to be given to ensure the credibility of the experimental data.
13. In Line 276, the authors mentioned that the addition of epoxy resin accelerates hydration reaction. Any experimental results on hydration reaction or any references to support the explanation?

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The manuscript presents an experimental investigation into the performance of epoxy resin-modified concrete (ERMC) under combined salt erosion and freeze–thaw cycling. While the topic is relevant and the scope addresses a critical durability challenge in infrastructure materials, particularly in aggressive environments such as southern Xinjiang, several key issues limit the clarity and scientific rigor of the work in its current form.

The authors are encouraged to consult the attached annotated PDF for a detailed set of recommendations addressing both technical and editorial issues.

Comments for author File: Comments.pdf

Author Response

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Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 3 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The manuscript titled " Experimental Study on the Performance of Epoxy Resin-Modified Concrete under Coupled Salt Corrosion and Freeze-Thaw Cycles" is an experimental investigation of the durability and mechanical performance of epoxy resin-modified concrete subjected to combined salt corrosion and freeze-thaw cycles. This study addresses a critical issue in civil engineering, particularly for structures exposed to harsh environmental conditions. The research contains practical significance for enhancing the longevity of concrete infrastructures. The paper addresses a highly relevant environmental issue—reducing carbon emissions in the cement industry—by exploring biomass as an alternative fuel. The use of high-alkali conditions to simulate fuel ash impact is novel.

The manuscript is generally well-structured, with clear descriptions of the experimental procedures and findings.

The authors employ a systematic experimental methodology to assess the performance of modified concrete, providing empirical data that can inform practical applications.

 

I recommend its publication in the Sustainability journal after minor revision.

            Introduction:

1. While the study's aim is implied, a more explicit statement of the research objectives in the introduction would enhance clarity. Highlighting the hypothesis and the specific goals will help readers understand the study's direction and scope.
2. The manuscript would benefit from a more comprehensive literature review. Incorporating recent studies on epoxy resin modifications and their effects on concrete durability under similar environmental conditions would provide a stronger foundation for the research.

Materials and Methods:

1. Material Properties: Detailed information on the properties of the epoxy resin used (e.g., chemical composition, curing time, mechanical properties) should be included as it is essential for reproducibility and understanding the results.
2. Sample Preparation: A more thorough description of the sample preparation process, including mixing ratios, curing conditions, and specimen dimensions, would be useful.
3. Testing Procedures: Clarify the parameters of the freeze-thaw cycles (e.g., temperature ranges, duration of each cycle) and the concentration and type of salt used in the corrosion tests.
4. Line 94: explain the abbreviation GB/T 50082-2009 (the first place used).
5. Table 1: check the units in the table and enhance clarity

Results and Discussion:

1. Statistical Analysis: Incorporating statistical analyses to assess the significance of the results would strengthen the study.

3. Comparative Analysis: Comparing the performance of epoxy resin-modified concrete with that of unmodified concrete or other modification methods under similar conditions would provide a clearer picture of the benefits and limitations of the approach.
4. Terminology: Ensure consistent use of technical terms throughout the manuscript. For example, clarify whether "mass loss" refers to surface scaling, internal degradation, or both.

 

Comments on the Quality of English Language

A thorough proofreading to correct grammatical errors and improve sentence structure will enhance readability.

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Round 2

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The authors have revised the manuscript according to the comments. I suggest that the revised manuscript meets the requirement of publication in this Journal.

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The revisions have greatly improved the manuscript’s clarity, organization, and technical depth. The key issues raised were addressed effectively, and the manuscript is now well-structured and scientifically sound. I find it suitable for publication in its current form.