Corrosion risk within reinforced concrete

Since its inception in the 19^th century, reinforced concrete has been commonly used in many aspects of construction including bridges, commercial and private buildings and larger structures such as dams or smaller structural elements such as lighting columns.  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.

Corrosion risk within reinforced concrete is reduced by interaction with carbon dioxide found within the atmosphere and with chloride ions that are introduced into the concrete from sources such as sea water or pavement de-icing operations.  Should this occur, reinforcement may start to corrode which may severely reduce the durability and performance of a reinforced concrete structure.

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.