Concluding remarks The topic of sulfate attack on concrete is a most fascinating one. Because of the chemical and physico-chemical complexities of the mechanisms involved, and the subsequent influence of these processes on the mechanical properties of concrete products and structures, the preparation of this comprehensive review was both exciting and challenging. It was exciting because the intricacies and complexities of the underlying chemistry and physics are intellectually stimulating, requiring complex interpretations, and clear thinking. At the same time, the complexities may lead to honest controversies and stimulating dis- cussions between professional colleagues. While the authors have their own preferences of interpretations, as obvious from the text, they tried to present a multitude of views represented in the literature. It is our opinion, that neither external nor internal forms of sulfate attack are major causes of degradation of concrete structures. Compared to damage caused by corrosion of steel reinforcement and freezing and thawing, sulfate- related deterioration is globally minute, though serious for the owners of the particular structures. The types of sulfate-related deteriorations that were observed in North America, in the Middle East, and elsewhere are easily preventable by intelligent use of the available knowledge, adherence to the standards and codes, proper materials design, and processing, taking into consideration the expected environment of use. We hope our readers will find the book interesting and usefull in their professional lives. © 2002 Jan Skalny, Jacques Marchand and Ivan Odler . Concluding remarks The topic of sulfate attack on concrete is a most fascinating one. Because of the chemical and physico-chemical complexities of the mechanisms. major causes of degradation of concrete structures. Compared to damage caused by corrosion of steel reinforcement and freezing and thawing, sulfate- related deterioration is globally minute, though. requiring complex interpretations, and clear thinking. At the same time, the complexities may lead to honest controversies and stimulating dis- cussions between professional colleagues. While the