Preparation and characterization of the solid‐state Ag/AgCl reference electrode for RC structures

Abstract

Purpose

Corrosion sensors and networks are the most effective techniques to obtain the corrosion information and recognize the corrosion status of reinforced concrete structures. However, reference electrode is the key element to provide the baseline for potential control of the corrosion monitoring sensors during corrosion measurement process. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to provide the novel solid‐state reference electrode for the corrosion sensors.

Design/methodology/approach

A solid‐state Ag/AgCl reference electrode has been prepared. Furthermore, the performance of the reference electrode, such as stability, temperature response, anti‐polarization and influence of the concrete admixture, has been investigated.

Findings

The results indicate that the balance potential and the temperature coefficient of the reference electrode are 3.64±1mv (vs. SCE) at 25°C and −0.51 mv/°C±0.03 mv/°C, respectively. Furthermore, the polarization curve exhibits characteristics of three stages as the polarization current is in (−10μA/cm2,+10μA/cm2). Additionally, the reference electrode is insensitive to the concrete admixtures which include Na2SO4, NaCl, NaNO3 and NaNO2.

Originality/value

The research provides the key element for the corrosion monitoring sensors to integrate structural health monitoring system in future.

Citation

Qiao, G., Xiao, H., Hong, Y. and Qiu, Y. (2012), "Preparation and characterization of the solid‐state Ag/AgCl reference electrode for RC structures", Sensor Review, Vol. 32 No. 2, pp. 118-122. https://doi.org/10.1108/02602281211209400