Using Photovoltaics to Power Electrochemical Chloride Extraction from Concrete

Sean Bond, Lynette O'Callaghan, Niall Holmes, Brian Norton

Research output: Contribution to conferencePaperpeer-review

Abstract

Corrosion of embedded steel in reinforced concrete (RC) is a world-wide problem, that reduces structural performance and lifespan. Chloride attack may be a result of seawater, de-icing salts or contaminated admixtures, brought on by ingress of chlorides into the concrete. Electrochemical Chloride Extraction (ECE) is a non-destructive treatment for contaminated RC structures, that due to uncertainty of treatment times and applied current densities, is only 50% effective. It is often diesel powered has an environmental impact and often very costly due to the long treatment times. To improve the efficiency of ECE the influences of concrete resistance, cement type and duration of treatment have been investigated in an experimental programme. The use of Photovoltaic (PV) panels to improve the efficiency of ECE is presented which replace fossil fuels as a power source enabling a more environmentally sustainable treatment. These findings will increase the life span of vital infrastructure and reduce expensive ongoing repairs with decreased traffic congestion and inconveniences associated with bridge repairs.
Original languageEnglish
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2016
EventCivil Engineering Research in Ireland Conference, (CERI2016) - Galway, Ireland
Duration: 29 Aug 201630 Aug 2016

Conference

ConferenceCivil Engineering Research in Ireland Conference, (CERI2016)
Country/TerritoryIreland
CityGalway
Period29/08/1630/08/16

Keywords

  • Corrosion
  • reinforced concrete
  • Chloride attack
  • Electrochemical Chloride Extraction
  • environmental impact
  • Photovoltaic panels
  • sustainable treatment
  • infrastructure
  • bridge repairs

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