Long-lasting discrete sacrificial anodes for corrosion mitigation in chloride contaminated concrete

Unmet Need: Long-lasting commercial discrete sacrificial anode (DSA) products

Corrosion of reinforcement materials induced by chloride contamination in concrete is a leading cause of structural damage and premature degradation in reinforced concrete (RC) structures, with significant implications for safety, reliability, economics, and environmental performance. Discrete sacrificial anodes (DSAs) are one tool used for corrosion mitigation of steel reinforcements in chloride contaminated concrete. Recent studies reveal that commercially available DSA products have shorter service life than expected due to the accumulation of zinc corrosion products at the surface of the anode, which reduces current supply and leads to complete failure of the DSA.

The Technology: Improved design and methods for the manufacturing of DSAs.   

Improved methods have been developed to overcome the short service life of commercially available DSA products. Methods include the periodical rejuvenation of partially oxidized zinc connected to the anode as well as specialty encasing materials designed for DSAs utilizing conductive and porous foamed cement paste containing carbon fibers.

Applications:

• Mitigation of corrosion of salt contaminated reinforced concrete.
• Enhancement of effectiveness of repair mortar for aging concrete infrastructure.
• Rejuvenation and protection of sacrificial anodes for corrosion protection applications.

Advantages:

• Improved life-cycle performance of reinforced concrete structures in corrosive environments.
• Greatly extend the service life and performance of repair mortar and embedded anodes.
• Use and recycling of waste carbon fibers.

Patent Information:

Provisional patent application has been filed.

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