ABSTRACT
In marine environments and where de-icing salts are applied, the degradation of reinforced concrete structures due to the chloride induced corrosion of the reinforcement is a major problem. The expansive nature of the corrosion process results in cracking of the concrete and eventually spalling. In order to select suitable remedial measures it is necessary to make an assessment of the residual strength and the residual life. This research examines the relationship between the extent of corrosion (in terms of section loss); the extent of cracking; and the residual bond strength (between the steel bar and the concrete). Specimens comprising square prismatic concrete sections containing steel reinforcement in the four comers have been subjected to a wet-dry cycle and corrosion has been accelerated by polarization. The results of pull-out tests, crack measurements and loss of section (theoretical) are presented. The experimental process and the apparatus are described. The relationship between bond strength and crack formation, bar diameter, bar confinement and bar position (top of section or bottom) is discussed.
