Evaluation of Reinforced Concrete Structures by Means of a Novel Electrochemical Noise Corrosion Sensor

Abstract

The present work describes the design and development of a new corrosion sensor to monitor reinforced concrete structures both under laboratory conditions, as well as for service structures in-situ. This corrosion sensor involves the use of electrochemical noise and guard ring techniques. To test and validate the sensor's overall performance, electrochemical noise measurements were recorded for a total of four reinforced concrete beams, half of which were immersed in tap water, while the other half were in a 3.5% sodium chloride (NaCl) solution (both treatment levels involved an 18-month exposure period). The collected data were compared against polarization resistance (Rp) values recorded for commercial equipment. Some of the advantages of this electrochemical noise corrosion sensor are described and discussed.