Advanced Methods for Protection and Repair of Reinforced Concrete

The deterioration of concrete in building facades and other structures is both predictable and manageable. The causes and processes of steel reinforcement corrosion and spalling of concrete are now well understood. With this understanding has developed the methods of investigation of the causes and the abilities predict the rate of deterioration and, with early diagnosis, totally prevent or at least delay of the onset of corrosion and the resultant spalling. 

This paper briefly outlines the major processes of concrete deterioration, modern methods of investigation, prediction of the life of the concrete elements and the prevention and delay of the onset of active deterioration. It also outlines the design processes of the repair techniques available, including patch repairs, and coatings and cathodic protection. 

While this paper concentrates on building facades generally, the processes of investigation, prediction and repair described apply equally well to civil engineering structures.