Concrete Cancer - Prevention, Detection and Repair

Concrete Cancer – Prevention, Detection and Repair

What is Concrete Cancer?

Concrete cancer, also known as concrete spalling or concrete degradation, is a term used to describe the deterioration of concrete structures caused by the corrosion of steel reinforcement within the concrete.

Over time, moisture and oxygen can penetrate the concrete and react with the steel reinforcement, causing it to rust and expand. This expansion creates pressure within the concrete, causing it to crack, flake or crumble away, ultimately leading to structural damage.

 

Can it be prevented?

While it may not be possible to completely prevent concrete cancer, there are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risk and delay the onset of deterioration:

Proper design and construction: Ensuring that concrete structures are designed and constructed to industry standards and best practices can help reduce the risk of concrete cancer. This includes using appropriate materials, reinforcing steel, and concrete mix design.

Regular maintenance: Regular inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of concrete structures can help identify and address any issues before they become more serious.

Adequate drainage: Proper drainage design and installation can help prevent water from penetrating the concrete and coming into contact with the steel reinforcement.

Protective coatings: Applying protective coatings to the surface of the concrete can help reduce the risk of water and moisture penetration, which can in turn help reduce the risk of corrosion.

Cathodic protection: This is a method of providing electrochemical protection to the steel reinforcement, which involves the application of a small electrical current to the steel. This can help prevent corrosion and delay the onset of concrete cancer.

It is important to note that while these steps can help reduce the risk of concrete cancer, they cannot guarantee that it will not occur. Regular monitoring and maintenance of concrete structures is essential to ensure their ongoing durability and safety.

 

Can it be Repaired?

To repair concrete cancer, the damaged concrete must be removed to expose the corroded steel reinforcement. Any rust or loose material should be cleaned from the steel using wire brushes or other mechanical methods. The exposed steel reinforcement should then be treated with a rust converter to prevent further corrosion.

The repair process typically involves the application of a concrete patching compound or a new layer of concrete to the affected area, which is then left to cure. In more severe cases, a reinforcing steel mesh may be added to provide additional strength to the repaired area. Regular maintenance of the structure, including sealing of any cracks, can also help prevent the development of concrete cancer in the future.

 

If you are responsible for, or own, a concrete structure, contact us on 01902674894 / info@ics-limited.co.uk to arrange for an inspection and we will determine if there are any indications of concrete cancer and suggest and undertake remedial works if any is found to prevent it becoming a serious issue.