Coming up with a concrete solution

According to the Australasian Corrosion Association, corrosion of the reinforcing steel in concrete is ‘a worldwide problem that causes a range of economic, aesthetic, and utilisation issues’. However, it explains, in an article re-published here that first appeared in the IHEA journal, The Australian Hospital Engineer, if corrosion effects are considered in the design phase, and the right decisions made prior to construction, buildings can be built to last, and protected for as long as possible. 

The corrosion of steel in concrete is accelerated in harsh environments, and especially coastal or tropical areas, where high salt levels or extreme temperatures can accelerate the rate of decay. Usually, the most exposed elements deteriorate first, but because the active corrosion may take 5 to 15 years to initiate cracks in the concrete, much of the actual corroded reinforcement is not visible. 

It is important that owners and operators of hospitals, not just the engineers, understand the cost implications of ignoring the effects of corrosion on the facilities of which they are in charge. There are many advantages to planning for corrosion control and mitigation. Two of the main ones are that the life of an asset can be extended, and maintenance time and costs reduced. In addition, reduced maintenance requirements increase the asset’s overall utilisation, and can improve its environmental sustainability.