Impressed current cathodic protection of chloride-contaminated RC structures with cracking

A numerical study

Journal article (2021)

Authors

Bingbing Guo Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology
Guofu Qiao Harbin Institute of Technology
Z. Li Materials and Environment - CEG
Dongsheng Li Dalian University of Technology
Jinghui Dai Harbin University of Commerce
Yan Wang Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology
Research Group
Materials and Environment (CEG) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2021 Bingbing Guo, Guofu Qiao, Z. Li, Dongsheng Li, Jinghui Dai, Yan Wang
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobe.2021.102943
Numerical modelling Cracks Impressed current cathodic protection Reinforced concrete structures Steel corrosion
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Published Date

2021

Language

English

Faculty

Civil Engineering & Geosciences

Department

Materials- Mechanics- Management & Design

Research Group

Materials and Environment

Abstract

Impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) is an effective and direct method for controlling the corrosion of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. However, few investigations related to ICCP in cracked RC structures have been reported. In this study, the effect of cracks in concrete cover on ICCP of chloride-contaminated RC structures was investigated through a numerical model including steel polarisation, electrode reactions, and ionic migration. In the developed numerical model, cracked concrete cover is assumed to consist of sound concrete and cracks, and cracks have their own ionic diffusion coefficients. The results indicate that the ICCP can maintain its ability to remove Cl− if concrete cover does not completely crack. Once the complete cracking in concrete cover occurs, the Cl− removal ability of ICCP would decrease or even disappear. Cracking does not cause any adverse effect on the pH improvement of ICCP. In this case, a stronger cathodic polarisation is recommended.