In order to realize the utilization of cement-based materials in the special extreme environment, the deep sea, the authors have launched a project targeted at creating a technology platform with in-situ methods and systems for monitoring and evaluating cement-based materials located at deep ocean bottom sites. The first in-situ test in the world with a view to investigating the time-dependence of the volumetric stability and microstructure of Portland cement mortar following its long-term exposure to deep-sea conditions is currently underway at a 3515-m depth in the Nankai Trough. This paper reviews previous studies about the influences of deep-sea hydraulic pressure on cement-based materials, verifies the action of short-term hydraulic pressure using Portland cement mortars on a laboratory scale, and introduces the ongoing progress of in-situ deep-sea tests. Results from laboratory tests indicate that dimensional changes were provoked by liquid water infiltration and confinement while under short-term hydraulic pressure, however, time-dependent behavior under stresses such as creep has not appeared. Weight gain, changes in pore-size distribution, compressive strength and bending strength of the cement mortar were monitored after pressurization and depressurization processes.
The results of the first-ever in-situ monitoring of a large mortar specimen at a depth of 3515 m in the Nankai Trough are presented in this study targeted at creating a technology platform for in-situ monitoring and evaluation of cement-based materials at the seabed to realize deep-sea infrastructures. We successfully monitored in situ the development of strain and hydraulic pressure in the specimen. In addition, the short-term behavior of the specimen can be explained by hydraulic confinement and stress relaxation due to water infiltration. Some contraction strain remained in the specimen even after approximately an exposure to the deep sea condition for one year, causing microstructural damage. The pore entry volume was enhanced toward the center of the specimen, and a decrease in compressive strength and Young's modulus were observed in the specimen after exposure due to the microstructural damage. Further improvement of the in-situ measurements is required to ensure the waterproofing and pressure resistance of the strain and pressure gauges.
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