How does freeze-thaw cycling degrade porous concrete animal sculptures?
Freeze-thaw cycling significantly degrades porous concrete animal sculptures through repeated expansion and contraction. When water penetrates the porous structure and freezes, it expands by 9%, creating internal pressure. This pressure causes microcracks to form and grow with each cycle, weakening the sculpture's structural integrity. Over time, surface spalling, crumbling, and loss of detail occur. The high permeability of porous concrete accelerates this damage by allowing more water absorption. Preventive measures include using air-entrained concrete, proper sealing, and winter protection to extend the lifespan of outdoor concrete artworks.
