Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
for the production of ammonium salts, which are used to a certain extent as fire-
preventing agents in insulation products. By reacting with hydrocarbons it forms
amines which can be used in the production of a whole series of plastics.
When a material oxidizes, it forms a chemical compound with oxygen. This is
an exothermic reaction which is automatic. In the building field, this is a very
common occurrence with metals, more commonly known as rust or corrosion.
The process is electrolytic. In many cases this oxidization is not a welcome
process - metals are often coated with a protective sheath.
Other compounds in the air can also break down building materials, including
natural carbon dioxide and air pollutants, such as sulphur dioxide and soot.
