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A phenomenological model for the chloride threshold of pitting corrosion of steel in simulated concrete pore solutions

Xianming Shi (Corrosion and Sustainable Infrastructure Laboratory, College of Engineering, Western Transportation Institute, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA and Civil Engineering Department, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA)
Tuan Anh Nguyen (Corrosion and Sustainable Infrastructure Laboratory, College of Engineering, Western Transportation Institute, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA)
Prathish Kumar (Corrosion and Sustainable Infrastructure Laboratory, College of Engineering, Western Transportation Institute, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA)
Yajun Liu (Corrosion and Sustainable Infrastructure Laboratory, College of Engineering, Western Transportation Institute, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA)

Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials

ISSN: 0003-5599

Article publication date: 28 June 2011

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Abstract

Purpose

This work seeks to present a systematic study that aimed to provide quantitative understanding of the fundamental factors that influence the chloride threshold of pitting corrosion of steel in concrete, by conducting a set of laboratory tests to assess the corrosion potential (Ecorr) and pitting potential (Epit) of steel coupons in simulated concrete pore solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

With the aid of artificial neural network, the laboratory data were used to establish a phenomenological model correlating the influential factors (total chloride concentration, chloride binding, solution pH, and dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration) with the pitting risk (characterized by Ecorr−Epit). Three‐dimensional response surfaces were then constructed to illustrate such predicted correlations and to shed light on the complex interactions between various influential factors.

Findings

The results indicate that the threshold [Cl]/[OH] of steel rebar in simulated concrete pore solutions is a function of DO concentration, pH and chloride binding, instead of a unique value.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations and implications of the research findings were also discussed.

Practical implications

This research could have significant practical implications in predicting the service life of new or existing reinforced concrete in chloride‐laden environments.

Originality/value

This study further advances the knowledge base relevant to the chloride‐induced corrosion of steel rebar in concrete.

Keywords

Citation

Shi, X., Anh Nguyen, T., Kumar, P. and Liu, Y. (2011), "A phenomenological model for the chloride threshold of pitting corrosion of steel in simulated concrete pore solutions", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 58 No. 4, pp. 179-189. https://doi.org/10.1108/00035591111148894

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2011, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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