The effect and mitigation of chloride ion contamination on reinforced concrete structures

The presence of sufficient concentrations of chloride ions can initiate and sustain the corrosion of reinforcing steel within reinforced concrete elem ents. Corrosion of the reinforcing steel may be detrimental to the appearan ce, functionality, and longevity of the structure itself. This paper will p resent the diffusion process whereby chloride ions migrate through concrete and the deterioration mechanism of the chloride ion by the formation of co rrosion cells. It will also discuss some of the benefits and disadvantages of different available repair and protection techniques including chip-and- patch, removal and replacement, application of protective coatings and lini ngs and electrochemical repair methods.