Sep 6 2007
CERAM is offering a valuable non-destructive testing (NDT) service to professionals requiring integrity testing for reinforced concrete structures.
Utilising the half cell potential electrochemical technique, CERAM experts are able to qualitatively assess the corrosion potential of reinforcing steel used in concrete structures such as bridges and flyovers.
Using copper/copper sulphate electrodes to measure the potential difference between reference points on the concrete grid and the reinforcing steel below, CERAM’s experts are able to produce a contoured map of the structure under analysis, highlighting any areas that may need rectifying.
Recently used to excellent effect for a bridge on the M1 motorway, the technique is proving a popular choice. Dr Martin O’Farrell of CERAM commented: “The beauty of the half cell potential method is that it is essentially non-destructive and allows an accurate picture of corrosion potential exhibited by the steel below to be obtained.
“It also takes relatively little time to carry out which, when you’re dealing with motorways or busy roads that may need to be closed or restricted during testing work, is important.”
CERAM also offers further validation tests to supplement half cell potential testing, including covermeter surveys and chemical analysis of the samples collected.
CERAM’s team of engineers and scientists are acknowledged experts in the field of testing individual components, construction materials and full scale structures.
The bridge testing services outlined here are offered via UK Analytical, a subsidiary firm of CERAM.
For further information on half cell potential testing, or on any of the other structural testing services offered by CERAM, please contact Dr Martin O’Farrell on +44 (0)1782 764444 or email [email protected]