Cathodic Protection for Reinforced Concrete Structures: The Only Effective Solution Against Corrosion

Why is Reinforcement Corrosion a Major Threat?

Steel corrosion in reinforced concrete is the leading cause of premature infrastructure aging. In France, 80% of structures are affected by corrosion, and more than 25,000 bridges show advanced signs of deterioration.

This phenomenon is caused by:

 ✅ Chloride penetration (de-icing salts, marine exposure), which exposes steel to oxidation.

 ✅ Concrete carbonation, a chemical process that lowers the pH and destroys the protective layer on steel.

Once initiated, corrosion leads to:

🔹 Cracking and spalling, further exposing steel to environmental damage.

🔹 Structural weakening, which can lead to failure of the structure.

🔹 Exponential maintenance costs, sometimes requiring complete reconstruction.

To tackle this issue, only one solution can stop corrosion and ensure long-term protection: cathodic protection.

💡 For more information about corrosion: our article about corrosion in reinforced concrete structures.

How does Cathodic Protection works?

Cathodic protection is an electrochemical process that prevents steel oxidation by supplying electrons. It operates through two main technologies:

1️⃣ Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP)

🔹 A power supply feeds inert anodes (titanium, carbon).

🔹 The steel acts as cathode and can no longer corrode.

🔹 A control system continuously adjusts the current for optimal protection.

📈 Lifespan: up to 100 years, depending on the type of anode used.

2️⃣ Galvanic Anode Cathodic Protection (GACP)

🔹 Sacrificial zinc anodes are directly connected to the reinforcement.

🔹 These anodes corrode instead of the steel.

📈 Lifespan: 10 to 25 years, depending on the environment and materials used.

Graphic representing impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP).

🔎 An additional benefit:

Cathodic protection not only stops corrosion but also realkalizes concrete and expels chlorides, strengthening its durability.

Why is Cathodic Protection the Only Sustainable Solution?

Unlike conventional solutions (coatings, inhibitors, localized repairs), cathodic protection directly addresses the root cause of corrosion, offering unmatched benefits:

✅ Proven effectiveness: Used for over 50 years, this technique is internationally standardized (EN ISO 12696).

✅ Prevention and treatment: It protects both new and existing structures.

✅ Real-time monitoring: BlueSpine solutions enable remote control and optimized maintenance.

✅ Cost-effectiveness: An initial investment that prevents expensive repairs in the long run.

Supply of Equipment for Your Cathodic Protection Projects

🌍 BlueSpine designs and supplies complete cathodic protection solutions, including control units, anodes, and accessories, all compliant with european (EN ISO 12696) and international (AMPP) standards.

📦 Need equipment for a cathodic protection project? Explore our range of solutions and benefit from our expertise to select the best-suited materials.

See our Cathodic Protection Supplies Here