Current Volume 9
Comparative Evaluation of Concrete Spacer Systems for Reinforced Concrete Structures in Tropical Environments
Abstract
Concrete spacers play a critical role in maintaining the required concrete cover and ensuring the durability of reinforced concrete structures, particularly in tropical environments characterized by high humidity, elevated temperatures, and chloride exposure. This study presents a comparative evaluation of three commonly used concrete spacer systems: cement-based spacers, stone or brick spacers, and polymer-coated spacers. A qualitative, non-experimental research design was employed using data synthesized from established engineering literature, technical standards, and previous studies related to reinforced concrete durability and spacer performance. The evaluation was conducted through a Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) framework using eight performance criteria, namely compressive strength, water absorption, chloride penetration resistance, durability, bond compatibility, ease of installation, stability during concreting, and cost efficiency. Each criterion was assigned a corresponding weight based on its relevance to structural serviceability and durability in tropical conditions. Results of the weighted decision matrix indicated that cement-based spacers achieved the highest overall score of 4.655 due to their material compatibility with surrounding concrete, superior bond performance, and long-term durability. Polymer-coated spacers obtained a score of 3.655, demonstrating strong resistance to moisture penetration but exhibiting potential interfacial limitations under thermal and mechanical stresses. Stone or brick spacers recorded the lowest score of 1.750 because of their high porosity, irregular geometry, and poor durability performance. The findings suggest that cement-based spacers provide the most reliable overall performance for reinforced concrete structures exposed to aggressive tropical environmental conditions. This study highlights the importance of selecting appropriate spacer systems to enhance structural durability, minimize reinforcement corrosion, and improve long-term serviceability in tropical construction environments.
Keywords
Bond Compatibility, Concrete spacers, Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA), Reinforcement Corrosion, Tropical environments.
Citations
IRE Journals:
Alelie Joy C. Alejo, Kevin Lester L. Mabalay, Frances Margaret C. Pascual, Jhonwel C. San Pedro "Comparative Evaluation of Concrete Spacer Systems for Reinforced Concrete Structures in Tropical Environments" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 9 Issue 11 2026 Page 3513-3520 https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I11-1718027
IEEE:
Alelie Joy C. Alejo, Kevin Lester L. Mabalay, Frances Margaret C. Pascual, Jhonwel C. San Pedro
"Comparative Evaluation of Concrete Spacer Systems for Reinforced Concrete Structures in Tropical Environments" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 9(11) https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I11-1718027
About IRE Journals
IRE Journals is an open access online journals established with an aim to publish high quality of research work in various diciplines. We have more than 6 years in publications. Over 2500+ papers already published.
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