Development of a Field Corrosion Detection and Monitoring Program for Reinforced Concrete Bridges

The reinforcing steel within concrete bridge decks is susceptible to corrosion caused most often by the intrusion of deicing salts applied to the surface during freezing weather conditions. The corrosion products cause the steel to expand and produce stresses in the surrounding concrete that eventually fracture the concrete and damage the bridge. This study involves the development of a comprehensive field test program to detect corrosion activity in its early stages, thereby providing a warning that corrective measures are needed to prevent or slow the progress of further damage. The field test program consisted of optimizing the use of several test methods and techniques available today in a way that a true assessment of the corrosion condition of the structure is made with minimum interruption of service. A methodology is presented that will suggest the necessary steps to determine the state of corrosion activity within concrete decks.