Effectiveness of surface coatings in reduced carbonation of reinforced concrete

Document Status

Current

Supplement

Core Supplement

Series

Information Paper

Abstract

The alkalinity released by cement hydration generally protects embedded reinforcing steel from corrosion. Carbonation of concrete to the depth of cover neutralises the protection and can lead to the formation of corrosion products on the steel and to cracking, rust staining and spalling of the concrete. Coatings are being specified increasingly, either as a preventive measure or as part of repair work, to control the carbonation rate of concrete. BRE has developed an accelerated test to determine the relative carbon dioxide resistance of such coatings. Results of recent studies using this test show that a variety of coating types, properly applied, can fulfil carbon dioxide resistance requirements.

Author

Davies, H. and Rothwell, G. W.

History

This document is no longer available from the original publisher, therefore the status is unconfirmed.

Subjects

• Coverings and surface finishes
• Materials
• Surface finishes
• In situ concrete/cement

Publisher History

BRE is a building science centre that generates new knowledge through research. This is used to create products, tools and standards that drive positive change across the built environment. BRE helps its government and private sector clients meet the significant environmental, social and economic challenges they face in delivering homes, buildings and communities. BRE is owned by the BRE Trust, a registered charity. The Trust uses the profits made by the BRE companies to fund research and education that advances knowledge of the built environment.