Cathodic protection of reinforcement in concrete – experience and development over 30 years

Abstract

This paper presents developments over 30 years in the field of cathodic protection of steel reinforcement in concrete in The Netherlands and elsewhere. From the late 1980s major developments have been: application to large numbers of precast elements corroding due to mixed-in chloride with drilled in titanium anodes and conductive coatings; analysis of working life of systems and components and end-of-life considerations; application to prestressed structures; new anode types including galvanic systems with associated life and design considerations; numerical modelling and preventative applications. Presently, CP has become a fully accepted method of securing safety and serviceability of buildings and infrastructure. Major successes and lessons learned will be presented. Technical and non-technical developments are highlighted and some recent innovative CP systems are discussed.