Performance Evaluation Of Reinforced Concrete Under Accelerated Acidic And Saline Corrosion Conditions

Abstract

Corrosion of steel reinforcement is one of the most severe durability issues in concrete structures exposed to aggressive environments. This study investigates the performance degradation of reinforced concrete when subjected to accelerated acidic and saline corrosion environments. An experimental program was conducted using reinforced concrete specimens immersed in sulfuric acid and sodium chloride solutions under controlled conditions. Electrochemical techniques, mass loss analysis, and compressive strength tests were employed to evaluate corrosion intensity and structural degradation. The results demonstrated that acidic environments led to rapid surface deterioration, while chloride-induced corrosion accelerated internal steel degradation. The study highlights the comparative impacts of acidic and saline attacks and proposes potential mitigation strategies for enhanced durability.