Title:
Some Durability Considerations for Evaluating and Repairing Concrete Structures
Author(s):
Alexander M. Vaysburd
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
15
Issue:
3
Appears on pages(s):
29-35
Keywords:
bond (concrete to reinforcement); chlorides; corrosion; oxygen; cracking (fracturing); deterioration; moisture; repairs; General
DOI:
Date:
3/1/1993
Abstract:
The deterioration and repair of concrete structures is a common and serious problem involving high cost, public inconvenience, and possible safety hazards. It is impossible to evaluate the condition of a structure and select a repair method with any assurance of satisfactory results unless the cause of the deterioration is understood. Unfortunately, current literature on steel corrosion in concrete is so confused that engineers, who usually are not materials and concrete durability specialists, must address concrete deterioration problems and make decisions about replacement or repair without guidelines and, in some instances, with misleading guidelines. An issue relevant to many current problems with concrete durability is reviewed in this paper. This is the corrosion of steel in concrete, particularly the so-called "chloride threshold." Because opinions differ on the role of chlorides in the corrosion process, the intent here is to approach the controversy from another view. Much of the corrosion of steel in concrete is not related to chlorides, but can be attributed to faulty design, material selection, and workmanship. In summarizing this approach, recommendations are made for much needed research on the corrosion of steel and deterioration of concrete.