Approach to Determine Corrosion Propensity in Post-Tensioned Tendons with Deficient Grout

Abstract

After corrosion failure of post-tensioned tendons was identified in a Florida bridge in early 2011, laboratory tests were conducted in this study on extracted sections from the failed tendons to identify the grout properties and makeup leading to the failure and also to elucidate the mechanism of corrosion. The initial steps in identification of PT tendons with a high propensity for corrosion initiation or damaged included a detailed visual inspection and identification of voids in the grout. Voids in tendon can be a result of bleed water formation or construction problems. General characteristics of the deficient grout and corrosion behavior of steel in the affected bridge gave a first approach to assessing grout deficiency and corrosion susceptibility. However, refinements in the understanding of the mechanisms causing grout segregation and the elucidation of the role of sulfates, oxygen content, and pore water pH in corrosion development are required.