The UK spends millions of pounds every year on the repair and maintenance of structures and buildings due to corrosion. Steel corrosion is probably the single most serious cause of deterioration of reinforced concrete and steel-framed, masonry clad structures. Buildings and bridges are suffering from corrosion due to contamination from carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, de-icing salts, sea salt and salts cast into the concrete.
The first step in determining the need for corrosion control is to assess the risk of corrosion; it is important to identify whether there is a future risk of steel corrosion for both new and existing structures.
New structures
For a new structure, the following will need to be considered:
- Environmental conditions
- Material specifications
- Construction design
- Service life requirements
If the risk of corrosion is considered to be significant then a corrosion prevention system can be installed during construction.
Existing Structures
Existing structures require a corrosion risk assessment based on the current condition and the required service life. A condition survey should be carried out; if a risk of corrosion is identified then preventative action should be taken to stop it occurring or reduce the risk.
Prevention may be as simple as the renewal of defective floor sealants and cleaning out of drains in a car park; a more serious problem or more aggressive environment may require a more complex solution.
We are able to offer all methods of corrosion control including:
- Anti-carbonation coatings
- Migratory corrosion inhibitors
- Cathodic Protection
From our experience and knowledge of all of the available methods and solutions we are able to offer unbiased, independent advice for controlling corrosion.
