Abstract
Electrochemical re-alkalisation of concrete involves application of a direct current between an externally applied anode surrounded in a sodium carbonate electrolyte and the internal reinforcing steel. It offers a means of rehabilitating reinforced concrete in which carbonation has progressed so far that the steel is at risk of corrosion without the noise and disruption associated with mechanical patch repairs. However, potential users may be put off by the side effects of the treatment and this investigation aimed to provide information on the effects of re-alkalisation on physical and mechanical properties of concrete. Laboratory specimens exposed to high pressure carbonation were re-alkalised and the porous and strength properties compared with untreated concrete. Re-alkalised concrete is stronger, denser, less water absorbent and shows a tendency to lower levels of alkali silica expansion. Potential users may be reassured that there are no detrimental effects to the properties of the concrete as a result of electrochemical re-alkalisation. © 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 255-258 |
| Number of pages | 4 |
| Journal | Construction and Building Materials |
| Volume | 11 |
| Issue number | 4 |
| Publication status | Published - Jun 1997 |
Keywords
- Concrete
- Corrosion
- Re-alkalisation