Concrete Admixtures - Corrosion Protection

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Reinforced concrete that is exposed to deicing salts and marine environments is particularly susceptible to chloride-induced corrosion.

A well-designed, durable, low permeability concrete mix will provide some protection against chloride-induced corrosion of reinforcement.

Corrosion inhibitors can be effective in parking structures, bridges and marine environments. Other ways of reducing corrosion are to use penetrating surface sealers to help prevent chloride penetration, epoxy-coated rebar, or silica fume in the mix. Silica fume can increase durability and reduce permeability.

Non-chloride containing set accelerator admixtures are available which conform to ASTM C 494 Type C.

Calcium chloride has been used in the past because it is relatively inexpensive and provides set acceleration and early strength development. However, the corrosive effects of the chloride have been observed as much as 20 years after the concrete was poured. Thus, non-chloride containing admixtures have been developed for use where potential corrosion of embedded or stressed steel must be avoided.

As with all other admixtures, manufacturers instructions for its use in conjunction with other admixtures and dosage must be followed to be effective.

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More Information:

See How Corrosion Inhibitors Work

Review this Grace Construction Engineering Bulletin

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