Corrosion risk within reinforced concrete

Since its inception in the 19^th century, reinforced concrete has been commonly used in many aspects of building construction. The inclusion of reinforcement within concrete significantly improves its tensile strength, allowing greater flexibility in its use.

This reinforcement is usually in the form of steel bars.  Concrete is naturally alkaline in nature and when concrete of suitable quality and of sufficient depth from the atmosphere is present, this alkalinity can be expected to provide protection to steel reinforcement.

Nicholls Colton undertakes a range of intrusive and non-intrusive inspection and testing works which can identify at an early stage the likelihood and subsequent confirmation of corrosion being present in reinforced concrete.  Nicholls Colton is UKAS* accredited for many of the tests required including:

• Cement content of concrete – click here

• Chloride ion contamination – click here

• Depth of carbonation – click here

• Depth of cover to reinforcement – click here

• Half-cell potential survey – click here

• Laboratory testing of concrete – click here

• Resistivity to concrete – click here

• Sampling and testing reinforcement – click here

• Sampling of hardened concrete – click here

• Visual and delamination survey – click here