Effect of polycarboxylate and polyarylate surfactants on corrosion of the steel reinforcement embedded in the concrete

Abstract

We considered the possibility to inhibit the corrosion of the steel reinforcement embedded in the concrete using different polymeric surfactants, when paired with the passivating and plasticizing chemical additives. Previously [1] the authors proposed the method to form the protective films on the surface of the steel reinforcement embedded in concrete using the polycomponent anticorrosion naphthalene sulfonate superplasticizer based additives. The results of further surveys provided in this article proved, that under the special conditions the polyarylate and polycarboxylate surfactants are capable to keep the steel reinforcement in the passive state in presence of chlorine ions. This is especially relevant, considering the fact, that the polymer additives intended for plasticization of concrete are more widely used for the manufacturing of the monolithic and prefabricated reinforced concrete structures. In the same time Deicing agents having in its composition chlorine ions, are widely used for deicing of roads in different countries. Chlorine ions adversely affect the reinforcement of concrete artificial structures in transport. the corrosion of metals incurs huge losses, the global cost is $ 2.5 trillion, equivalent to 3.4% of world gross domestic product (GDP) for 2013[2]. In 1993, the United States spent 20 billion dollars on the repair of reinforced concrete bridges only because of the impact of chlorides[3].