Cathodic Protection of Steel in Concrete

Cathodic protection for steel in concrete is a method used to prevent corrosion of steel reinforcement within concrete structures. It involves applying an electrical current to the steel, making it the cathode of an electrochemical cell and reducing its corrosion rate.

Yes, Cathodic protection can be retrofitted to existing concrete structures. This involves assessing the current state of the steel reinforcement, designing a suitable protection system, and installing the necessary components with minimal disruption.

ICCP systems provide controlled and adjustable protective currents, making them suitable for large or complex structures. They offer long-term protection, can be monitored and adjusted as needed, and are effective in various environmental conditions.

The effectiveness is monitored using reference electrodes to measure the potential of the steel reinforcement and ensure it remains within the protected range. Regular inspections and maintenance are also conducted to check the system's performance and make necessary adjustments.

With proper maintenance and a long term focused design, a cathodic protection system can last up to 100 years decades. The lifespan of individual components, like reference electrodes and power supply units may vary and require periodic replacement. Regular monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the system's longevity.