SOLVING THE GALVANIC CELL PROBLEM IN FERRO-CEMENT

The nature and constitution of ferro-cement is reviewed with special reference to the structure of cement paste. The microstructure of low water to-cement ratio pastes is presented in schematic illustrations to show that a thin paste layer can be used to protect steel reinforcing material from a marine environment. A galvanic cell between the plain steel reinforcing bar and the galvanized steel mesh ordinarily used in ferro-cement is identified. This galvanic cell gives off hydrogen gas at the plain steel reinforcing bar which leads to poor bonding. Possible solutions to this problem are presented and one, the use of chromium trioxide (CrO3) in the mix water, is shown to solve the problem most effectively. This leads to improved mechanical properties as well as a sounder barrier to corrosion of the reinforcement. (Author)

• Corporate Authors:

  University of California, Berkeley

  Division of Structural Engineering and Structural Mechanics
  Berkeley, CA  United States  94720
• Authors:
  • Christensen, K A
  • Williamson, R B
• Publication Date: 1971-7

Media Info

• Pagination: 67 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Corrosion protection; Ferrocement; Galvanic corrosion; Reinforced concrete
• Subject Areas: Marine Transportation; Materials;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00025721
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Technical Information Service
• Report/Paper Numbers: UCSESM-71-14, TR-2 Intrm Tech
• Contract Numbers: N00014-69-A-02001007
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Mar 28 1972 12:00AM