Extension of service life by electrochemical treatment of steel reinforcement

Author(s): G. Sergi and G. Seneviratne
Paper category: Workshop
Book title: RILEM International workshop on performance-based specification and control of concrete durability
Editor(s): D. Bjegović, H. Beushausen, M. Serdar
ISBN: 978-2-35158-135-3
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-136-0
Pages: 385 - 392
Total Pages: 8
Language: English

Abstract: 
It is often suggested that a good concrete mix design with adequate steel cover, aided by good site practice, should ensure corrosion free steel reinforcement for the design service life of a steel reinforced structure. Localised variations in the exposure environment can, however, significantly reduce structure serviceability. Furthermore, changes in the use of a structure over its life, inadequate local design details, low quality of workmanship, shrinkage and movement cracks and other localised phenomena can all contribute to failure within the structure’s service life.
Electrochemical treatment of the steel can extend the structure’s service life either by preventing or by stopping corrosion and, in theory, beneficially modify the properties of the concrete especially at the steel concrete interface. This paper reviews the performance of galvanic anodes as used for low scale electrochemical treatment and service life extension and suggests ways in which resistance against steel corrosion can be improved.

Online publication: 2013
Publication Type: full_text
Public price (Euros): 0.00