Standard Test Methods for Determining Effects of Chemical Admixtures on Corrosion of Embedded Steel Reinforcement in Concrete Exposed to Chloride Environments

Abstract

3.1 These test methods provide a reliable means for predicting the inhibiting or corrosive properties of admixtures to be used in concrete. 3.2 The total integrated (coulombs) current is calculated to provide an indication of the corrosion that occurs due to the macrocell corrosion. 3.3 These test methods are useful for development studies of corrosion inhibitors to be used in concrete. 3.4 These test methods have been used elsewhere with good agreement between corrosion as measured by these test methods and corrosion damage on the embedded steel (1-4).4 These test methods might not properly rank the performance of different corrosion inhibitors, especially at concrete covers over the steel less than 40 mm (1.5 in.) or water-to-cement ratios above 0.45. The concrete mixture proportions and cover over the steel are chosen to accelerate chloride ingress. Some inhibitors might have an effect on this process, which could lead to results that would differ from what would be expected in actual use (5).