Feasibility and Prospects of Applying Electrolytic Protection Against Corrosion of Reinforced Concrete Bridge Supports
Abstract
To analyze the engineering aspects, assess the effectiveness, and evaluate economic feasibility of implementing electrolytic protection (ELP) to mitigate corrosion, thereby prolong the service life and enhance the reliability of reinforced concrete bridge support structures subjected to chloride aggression. Methods: The research relies on a comprehensive review of scientific literature from databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and RSCI, alongside with an analysis of regulatory and technical documents including ISO standards and national codes of practice, as well as results from field surveys. Mathematical modelling was utilized to determine the relationship between the corrosion rate, chloride concentration, and protective current density. Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) was conducted using specialized software to compare maintenance strategies. Field measurements of chloride ion content and stray current characteristics were performed. Results: The research illustrates an exponential increase in the corrosion rate at chloride concentrations above 0.4%, escalating from 2.43 to 177.01 μm/year. A corrosion reduction of up to 99% has been achieved at the current density of 10–15 mA/m². ELP systems, which use an external current source, can prolong the service life of supports by a factor of 45, with an initial investment of approximately 450 USD/m². The Net Present Value (NPV) of costs decreases to USD 355 thousand, in contrast to USD 510 thousand allocated for conventional repairs. The optimal range for cathodic current density necessary for effective corrosion suppression has been determined to be between 5–15 mA/m². Practical significance: The potential for integrating ELP into an infrastructure lifecycle management strategy has been demonstrated. This technology not only offers significant cost savings (1.5–2.5 times less than traditional methods) but also enhances bridge operational safety and facilitates a more efficient allocation of resources for the maintenance of transportation networks.