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Efflorescence Under the Microscope

Efflorescence

This is efflorescence from the concrete in a shop on Bainbridge Island, WA. It was believed to be mold and was going to be remediated. It is a conplex salt composed of sodium, calcium, chlorine, and carbonate ions with waters of hydration. The sulfate ion is not present.

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Definition/Function:

Efflorescence is a white crust or fibrous growth from cement products or bricks as a result of moisture. It tends to be dominated by sulfates and carbonates of calcium and/or sodium. This deposit contains no sulfate but it does contain chlorine.

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