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The hidden danger in concrete: How does steel corrosion lead to surface peeling?
In the fields of construction and engineering, concrete is a common structural material. However, many structures are not so strong over time, and corrosion of steel reinforcement is a major problem. Corrosion of the steel bars can cause peeling on the concrete surface, which not only affects the aesthetics of the structure but can also seriously affect its safety.
Why does steel corrode? This is mainly due to the environmental conditions of the steel bars in the concrete. When concrete structures are exposed to a humid or chemically aggressive environment, oxidized substances will form on the surface of the steel bars. These oxidation products will generate stress due to volume expansion. When these stresses exceed the compressive strength of the concrete, they lead to the formation of cracks, which then propagate and eventually form a crack parallel to the surface.
"Corrosion of steel bars is one of the main causes of failure of concrete structures."
When it comes to detecting steel corrosion in concrete, traditional methods include visual inspection and tap testing. Visual inspection is often used to detect surface cracks and peeling, but this method is not sensitive to internal corrosion that is not exposed. A tap test detects cavities or voids by tapping on the concrete surface. A crisp sound generally means the structure is sound, while a dull sound indicates potential debonding or corrosion issues.
In addition to visual inspection and tap testing, modern non-destructive testing techniques such as ultrasound and infrared imaging are also used to detect potential steel corrosion in concrete. These technologies can provide more detailed information about internal structures, helping engineers detect potential problems in a timely manner.
"As technology advances, structural inspection methods are becoming more precise."
However, there are a number of measures builders can take to prevent steel corrosion. During the construction stage, it is key to select high-quality concrete materials and improve the water resistance and chemical resistance of concrete. In addition, anti-corrosion materials can be coated on the surface of the steel bars, or corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel can be selected to extend their service life.
Concrete structures should also be designed to prevent the infiltration of moisture and chemicals. Good drainage systems can reduce water accumulation and reduce the risk of steel corrosion. Additionally, proper curing during construction is essential to prevent moisture from accumulating in the concrete.
Although steel corrosion is a hidden crisis, the risks posed by corrosion can be significantly reduced through on-site detection, preventive measures and timely maintenance. The stability and safety of concrete structures depend not only on the selection of materials, but also on every detail of construction and maintenance. As infrastructure needs grow around the world, can the construction industry find a more effective solution to the problem of steel corrosion?
