Concrete Corrosion and How to Prevent It

Concrete corrosion is a type of physicochemical, colloidal, or chemical disintegration and deterioration of solid structures and components and it is usually caused by reactive gases and liquids. It is a defect that can cause widespread damage to assets. Hence, it makes sense to make sure that preventative measures, testing, and coatings are applied to prevent or at least reduce the speed of corrosion. The corrosion of concrete reinforcement usually depends on the porosity and cover thickness of the concrete layer. Likewise, it may depend on environmental conditions, especially when those physical and geometrical properties are unable to meet requirements. 

Reinforced concrete is typically designed and constructed with an estimated life span, which is controlled by asset-owners and designed by designers. The structure must be in a state of deterioration to the point that it cannot fulfil its functions any more. To prevent concrete corrosion, steps like controlling the quality and thickness of the concrete cover must be conducted. That way, aggressive agents cannot cause corrosion in the reinforcements or at least move the stage further. Cover thickness pertains to the distance between the top reinforcement and concrete surface. It is measured by considering the required mechanical properties. Often times, steel corrodes due to thin cover thickness. 

Using the right concrete testing products can help you detect corrosion, so you can come up with preventative measures that will work and slow down the deterioration of the structure. The half-cell potential meter is a concrete monitoring equipment you can use to test reinforcing steel. High-end meters are capable of assessing rebar and analysing corrosion. The housing is built to withstand the harshest conditions in job sites. 

Advanced concrete corrosion monitoring equipment can serve as an early warning platform to forecast the initial levels of corrosion, especially in newly cast concrete. It comes with a sensor that can determine relevant corrosion parameters. Using a multi-sensor system, the device can predict when the corrosion can reach the concrete reinforcement. That way, you can start preparing the necessary preventative and maintenance work before permanent damage occurs.

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