A critical evaluation of cathodic protection for prestressing steel in concrete.

W. H. Hartt, C. L. Page, K. W.J. Treadway, P. B. Bamforth

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Cathodic protection (cp) is the only recognized technique for arresting ongoing corrosion of reinforcing steel in concrete; however, concern has been raised regarding applicability of this technology to prestressing steel because of hydrogen embrittlement. The present paper reviews the influence of potential, chlorides, electrolyte pH and precharging time upon prestressing steel embrittlement and concludes that -0. 90v., SCE, is an appropriate lower limit potential for protection. From this, two critical questions regarding cp applicability are raised. The first pertains to the effect of cp upon tendon-concrete bond strength and the second to determination of corrosion state of the tendon, as this is a necessary precursor to establishing appropriateness of cp. A new technology termed electrochemical proof testing for determination of the latter (corrosion state) is introduced, and application of this to qualifying prestressing steel for cathodic protection is discussed. (A)

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationUnknown Host Publication Title
PublisherLondon, U.K., Elsevier Applied Science
ISBN (Print)1851664874, 9781851664870
StatePublished - 1990

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Engineering

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