Novel approach for non-destructive evaluation of electrochemical potentials in reinforced concrete structures

Abstract

Various non-destructive diagnostic tools are available for a condition assessment of reinforced concrete structures. Potential mapping is a helpful method for locating areas with a high risk of chloride induced corrosion. The influence of the reinforcement continuity was investigated by using laboratory specimens. Furthermore the potential differences were compared between a measuring setup with a reinforcement connection and by measuring with two external electrodes. In assessing the results a novel approach was developed to locate critical areas without a reinforcement connection. The results are displayed by means of vectors similar to the needle of a compass that point to the areas of high corrosion potential, enabling an easy and non-destructive assessment. © RILEM 2013.