What does spalling refer to in construction materials?

Spalling specifically refers to the chipping or peeling of concrete or masonry surfaces. This phenomenon occurs when the surface of these materials breaks away, often due to the effects of moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, or thermal stress. In construction materials, spalling can compromise not only the aesthetic appearance of a structure but also its structural integrity over time.

While other choices address various forms of degradation or damage in building materials, they do not accurately capture the specific definition of spalling. For instance, cracking or failure of structural integrity is a broader category that might include spalling as one of its forms but does not define it. Similarly, blistering or peeling of paint and corrosion of metal components refer to entirely different issues that involve surface damage to coatings and metals, respectively. Therefore, identifying spalling as the chipping or peeling specifically in concrete or masonry correctly aligns with its technical definition in construction terminology.