Title:
Our Aging Infrastructure
Author(s):
Andy Marquardt
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
30
Issue:
9
Appears on pages(s):
52-55
Keywords:
corrosion; epoxy coating; galvanizing; reinforcing bar
DOI:
Date:
9/1/2008
Abstract:
The deterioration of many structures, especially those in coastal marine environments and settings that use deicing salts in the winter months, is accelerated by corrosion of the reinforcing steel. Corrosion is compounded by surface cracks in the concrete that provide a direct path for water and salt to reach the reinforcing steel. A new product called ZBARTM is produced by Gerdau Ameristeel and consists of reinforcing steel with a coating of zinc covered by a fusion-bonded epoxy layer. The fusion-bonded epoxy layer protects the zinc and reinforcing steel, while the zinc provides galvanic protection should the epoxy layer become damaged or deteriorate. Two projects that used the product are highlighted.