Microwave Heating Process to Demolish Concrete Structures

Status: Completed 2026

Funding Agency: Army Corps of Engineering/ERDC-CRREL

Abstract: 

This project investigates microwave heating (MH) as a quieter, cleaner, and more efficient technique for controlled concrete demolition. Experimental testing evaluated concrete cylinders of varying sizes (Ø2×4 in., Ø3×6 in., Ø4×8 in., and Ø6×6 in.), water-to-cement (w/c) ratios (0.36 to 0.50), and moisture states (saturated surface-dry vs. oven-dry). Specimens were exposed to microwave power levels of 300 W, 600 W, and 1000 W for 2 to 6 minutes, with internal temperatures monitored via embedded thermocouples and thermal imaging.

Results show that heating rates decrease with larger specimen volumes and higher w/c ratios, while increased microwave power accelerates temperature rise. Microwave penetration depth exceeded 8 in. in dry concrete, compared to roughly 4 in. in saturated specimens. Mechanical evaluation confirmed post-exposure reductions in compressive strength and rebar-concrete bond strength, demonstrating MH’s effectiveness in weakening reinforced systems. Additionally, a simplified numerical and statistical model was developed to estimate internal temperature distribution and assist process control. Ultimately, the findings highlight microwave heating as a scalable, viable method for demolishing plain and reinforced concrete structures.

 Principal Investigator: Dr. Gilson Lomboy, PhD

Link to Publications: 

Tech Brief