Corrosion of underground water and soil on reinforced concrete structures

Abstract

This research assesses the deterioration risks posed by groundwater and soil to reinforced concrete structures located in the Grobogan region of Central Java, Indonesia. The study systematically evaluated the concentrations of primary corrosive ions (such as Cl−, SO42−, Mg2+) in groundwater and soil, along with their corrosion potential on concrete and reinforcing steel, using field sampling, laboratory testing, and numerical modeling in accordance with the Chinese standards “Code for Geotechnical Investigation” (GB 50021-2001) and “Code for Corrosion Protection Design of Industrial Buildings” (GB 50046-2008). The results indicate that both groundwater and soil in this region exhibit “mild corrosion” potential for concrete structures and reinforcing steel. Furthermore, electrochemical dechlorination (ECR) parameters were optimized through orthogonal experiments, and their effectiveness was validated in an on-site bridge project. The study recommends the use of conventional dense concrete in similar environments and emphasizes enhanced durability monitoring in areas subject to alternating wet and dry conditions, providing a reference basis for durability design in corrosive environments.