Autonomous Corrosion Assessment of Reinforced Concrete Structures: Feasibility Study

Area of Science:

• Civil Engineering
• Materials Science
• Structural Health Monitoring

Background:

• Corrosion of steel reinforcement bars (rebar) in concrete structures is a global issue causing significant deterioration.
• This corrosion is primarily driven by carbonation and chloride ion penetration.
• Effective lifecycle management of reinforced concrete (RC) structures requires early detection and continuous monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the technological feasibility of autonomous corrosion assessment in RC structures.
• To identify optimal methods for continuous, non-destructive in-service monitoring of concrete degradation.
• To enhance resource management and safety through proactive structural health assessment.

Main Methods:

• A critical review of state-of-the-art pH and chloride ion (Cl-) sensors for concrete environments was conducted.
• Analysis of existing wireless monitoring capabilities for concrete parameters.
• Feasibility study focusing on integrating emerging technologies for autonomous assessment.

Main Results:

• Most reviewed pH and Cl- sensors demonstrate high sensitivity, reliability, and stability in concrete.
• Existing wireless monitoring solutions for Cl- are limited in range and scope.
• The study confirms the potential for advanced monitoring techniques.

Conclusions:

• Autonomous corrosion assessment of RC structures is technologically feasible.
• Integration of Internet of Things (IoT) and machine learning is recommended for advanced monitoring.
• This approach can optimize lifecycle management and ensure structural safety.