Corrosion of Steel in Cracked Concrete

Corrosion of steel in concrete is studied typically in uncracked concrete. In the field, however, concrete often has cracks that extend to the reinforcing steel. Electrochemical corrosion testing was performed on cracked concrete of two qualities. Results were compared to physical examination of the embedded reinforcement. Corrosion resistance improved significantly as the concrete properties and reinforcement cover approached that recommended in American Concrete Institute 318. Calcium nitrite additions to the concrete reduced corrosion significantly. Results indicated testing in cracked concrete should be performed in concrete representative of that specified in ACl 318.