Chapter 12: The Use of Corrosion Inhibitors in Reinforced Concrete Corrosion Check Access

Concrete is widely used in architectural structures due to its high strength, durability and versatile usability. However, the corrosion of steel rebar within reinforced concrete is a significant issue that poses a significant threat to the structural integrity, longevity and seismic resilience of buildings, bridges and other critical infrastructure. This process also leads to structural deterioration and safety concerns. One of the important reasons why buildings collapse during earthquakes is the corrosion of structural steel over time. Traditional corrosion protection methods, such as coatings and cathodic protection, have some limitations. The use of corrosion inhibitors has been an attractive and alternative approach to mitigating the destructive effects of reinforced concrete corrosion. This book chapter focuses on the utilization of corrosion inhibitors to protect steel rebar in reinforced concrete, their impact on architectural structures and the role of corrosion inhibitors in mitigating this important process. Starting with a brief definition and properties of concrete, reinforced concrete and steel rebar, the mechanism and the types of inhibitors as well as the importance of protecting steel rebar in reinforced concrete structures were discussed. Subsequently, the corrosion inhibition methods applied in reinforced concrete structures were introduced. After the classification of corrosion inhibitors, their utilization in reinforced concrete corrosion was discussed in detail. A new class of promising corrosion inhibitors, namely natural products, as corrosion inhibitors in reinforced concrete corrosion was also defined. Finally, the importance of steel rebar protection in reinforced concrete in enhancing the seismic resilience of buildings and the significance of reinforced concrete corrosion in earthquakes were discussed.