Principles and practice of electrochemical concrete repair : chloride extraction and realkalization

Abstract EN

Over the past ten years, the use of electrochemical concrete repair has increased dramatically, particularly for construction works such as bridges, motorways, and parking garages.

In this paper, electrochemical chloride extraction and realkalization are described and compared with cathodic protection.

Two case studies of structures treated in 1989 are included to illustrate the technology.

Testing has been carried out to examine the durability of the treatments and these results are also discussed.

Electrochemical concrete repair allows treatment of ongoing reinforcement corrosion without breaking out contaminated, but otherwise sound concrete.

This can be advantageous as noise, dust, and disruption are minimized.

Since only already cracked, spalled, or delaminated concrete needs to be broken out and replaced, the extent of patch repair is limited.

Structural support can often be avoided and the structure may be maintained in use during the treatment.