Localized Cathodic Protection of Simulated Prestressed Concrete Pilings in Seawater

Corrosion-induced deterioration of prestressed concrete pilings in seawater has been established as the predominant failure mode for bridge substructures in coastal Florida waters. A technology involving localized impressed-current cathodic protection (CP) of the splash-zone region in association with conductive rubber anodes was developed to mitigate this deterioration. A series of experiments involving cathodic polarization of simulated prestressed concrete piling specimens partially immersed in seawater was performed. Variables included the concrete mix design, specimen cross section, anode dimensions, and water level. An interactive aspect of CP-operating parameters in association with water level was identified as important if excessively negative potentials and possible tendon embrittlement were to be avoided. The data were evaluated with regard to the interdependence between depolarization magnitude, potential, and concrete relative humidity. Results were reviewed within the context of CP utility for prestressed concrete bridge piling.