Electrochemical Treatment of Concrete: A New Approach to Extend the Service Life of Chloride Contaminated, Carbonated, of Allkali Silica Reactive Concrete Structures

摘要

Much of the deterioration of concrete structures can be attributed to chloride contamination, carbonation, alkali silica reactivity (ASR), or a combination of these factors. Electrochemical methods have been developed and successfully used to remedy each of these modes of deterioration. Electrochemical techniques deal with the cause of the deterioration and leave the concrete in a passive and stable condition. In the case of chloride contaminated concrete, Electrochemical Chloride Extraction (Desalination) may be used to remove chloride ions. Electrochemical Realkalisation can be used to realkalise carbonated concrete. Both chloride extraction and realkalisation will stop rebar corrosion and return the internal reinforcing steel to its normal passive state. Where ASR is the problem, Electrochemical Lithium Impregnation may be used to arrest the expansion of certain expansive aggregates. In all cases, Electrochemical Treatment Methods may be used as a cost effective alternative to other available restoration techniques.