Application of Corrosion Inhibitors in the Repair of Concrete Structures Damaged by Corrosion

Abstract

Reinforced concrete is a fundamental material in structural engineering, universally adopted to meet the demands of urbanization and guarantee the durability of infrastructures essential to daily life, such as residential complexes, transport networks, bridges… etc. Its strength and durability depend largely on the steel reinforcements. However, these latter are vulnerable to the phenomenon of corrosion (rust), when concrete structures are built in aggressive environments with a high concentration of humidity, oxygen, chloride (NaCl), or subjected to carbonation, which inevitably leads to the deterioration and rapid degradation of structures. To avoid these structural risks, the use of corrosion inhibitors has emerged as an effective and durable solution in the field of protecting and repair of reinforced concrete structures. These inhibitors act by slowing down the chemical reactions responsible for corrosion; thereby extending the service life of structures. Our research aims to explore methods for rehabilitating degraded structures through corrosion reinforcement by using corrosion inhibitors. It also includes recommendations aimed at best integrating corrosion inhibitors into protection and repair strategies, while ensuring continuous monitoring of structures through early defect detection, all while prioritizing environmentally friendly solutions. In conclusion, preserving the integrity of reinforced concrete structures remains a strategic objective to guarantee their safety and durability.