What is 'weathering' in materials like concrete?

Weathering in materials such as concrete refers to the effects of environmental conditions on the surface over time. This process can involve physical, chemical, and biological actions that lead to changes in the material's properties. For concrete, weathering can result from exposure to water, temperature fluctuations, freeze-thaw cycles, and the presence of chemicals like salts, which may penetrate the concrete and cause deterioration.

As the environment interacts with the concrete, factors like UV radiation, moisture, and varying temperatures can lead to surface wear, cracking, color changes, and overall loss of structural integrity. This understanding is crucial for highway construction inspectors, as recognizing the signs of weathering can help in assessing the longevity and performance of concrete structures and determining when maintenance or replacement may be necessary.