There are multiple barriers and issues in the construction business. Concrete corrosion will unanimously be voted as one of the most problematicones. This is because it directly attacks the foundation of a structure, that is the concrete.
Without a strong foundation, any structurewould crumble. This happens mostly due to the formation of de-icing salt and CO2 that penetrates the concrete and makes it gullible from the inside. Rust is created as a by-product of this process.
Extent of damage
The internal pressure from the rust leads to the formation of cracks. This happens because the rust starts occupying more space than steel. The surrounding concrete often shows cracks and causes irreversible damage. These cracks widen and reach the surface.
This results in wider gaps in the concrete for more chloride and carbon dioxide to penetrate the structure. The kind of corrosion that takes place after this is unstoppable as the process gains more pace with each moment.
The expense
Concrete corrosion has become so common in most old and new structures that it is nearly impossible for these structures to retain their strength and stability. Concrete forms the basis of any architectural structure.
It is important to preserve these old buildings as they hold a lot of importance in today’s time. In order to do that, there is a certain price that must be paid. The corrosion process in reinforced concrete moves faster than regular concrete, and so, the repairs cost a fortune.
For example, an 80-year old structure’s preservation and testing would cost more than some of the money allotted for an entire new construction process. So, this kind of corrosion control becomes very expensive for any state’s administrative and finance body.
Assessments
The first step towards testing reinforced concrete is by taking samples. These samples can vary in sizes.
● The standard sample sizeremains five to twenty centimeters.
● However, most laboratory tests have shown that these small samples have a higher content of chloride in them,and hence, can provide inaccurate results.
● The next problem occurs when larger samples are sent for lab tests which turn out to be difficult to work with.
● Therefore, the entire testing process becomes more expensive, and increases the risk of corroded concrete inmultiple structures.
The protection of reinforced concrete structures might seem like a difficult task to complete, but with the help of Cortec-Me, it becomes hassle-free.
