Non-destructive analysis of concrete for corrosion studies using nuclear technique

Abstract

Chloride-induced reinforcement corrosion is the principal cause of deterioration of concrete structures in the Arabian Gulf and the world over. Preventive measures against corrosion require maintaining the chloride and sulphate concentration in concrete below the threshold limits specified by the standards. This requires monitoring the chloride and sulphate concentration in concrete, and a nondestructive technique is preferable for this purpose. The Prompt-Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) technique can be used to monitor the concentration of corrosive elements in concrete specimens. An accelerator-based PGNAA setup has been developed to measure the chloride and sulphate concentration in concrete. The PGNAA technique has been utilised successfully to measure the elemental composition of concrete. In this regard, several studies were undertaken to determine the calcium, silicon, chloride and sulphate concentration in the concrete specimens. Furthermore, the concentration of compounds, such as lime and silica was also determined. The results of these studies along with a description of the facility are presented in this paper.