Chapter 4: Visual, Surface, and Non-destructive Techniques Check Access

Steel corrosion stands as the primary factor contributing to the deterioration and premature failure of reinforced concrete (RC) structures, resulting in significant economic losses and environmental impacts. A systematic approach to testing is crucial for the effective assessment of corrosion in RC structures. This approach ensures a thorough understanding of the corrosion status, facilitating informed decision-making. The current chapter delves into a structured testing procedure designed for the comprehensive assessment of corrosion in RC. In phase 1 of the testing protocol, a visual inspection of the infrastructure is conducted to identify visible signs of corrosion-related damage. Following this, phase 2 involves the application of non-destructive/partial destructive testing techniques for assessing the physical and chemical characteristics of concrete and reinforcement corrosion. These non-destructive tests are strategically employed to assess and quantify the extent of rebar corrosion, offering crucial insights into the overall health of the structure. Along with the standardized testing procedures, some novel techniques are in the development stage to assess either the characteristics of concrete or of the rebar. These techniques are in the laboratory testing stage and have the potential to be used for on-site monitoring of RC structures. All these techniques are discussed in the present chapter, along with the merits and demerits of each procedure.