On the effectiveness of realkalisation as a rehabilitation method for corroded reinforced concrete structures

Based on available experience with the use of electrochemical realkalisatio n (ERA), a fairly recent method for rehabilitating reinforced concrete stru ctures (RCS), carbonated concrete can undoubtedly be realkalised. To the au thors' minds, however, the following questions remain unanswered: (a) does ERA always effectively repassivates reinforcements?; (b) can ERA be conside red an end or just a means to ensuring RCS durability?; and (c) what is the use of ERA if it cannot stop corrosion? This work was aimed at answering the previous, controversial questions. To this aim, the behaviour in a Ca(OH)(2) saturated solution, and in a sound u ncarbonated mortar consisting of 1:3:0.5 cement, sand and water, of reinfor cing bars from an RCS that failed through carbonation after 29 years of ser vice life was examined.