X-ray Imaging Insights into the Role of Interfacial Macro-Void Moisture in Corrosion
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Date
2026
Publication Type
Other Conference Item
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yes
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Abstract
This study investigates time-dependent processes occurring beneath opaque cementitious porous media through the application of non-destructive analytical techniques. X-ray computed tomography (XCT) – a technique enabling the 3D imaging and monitoring over time of processes within the cementitious matrix – is employed to examine the influence of macro-voids located at the steel-concrete interface (SCI) on the initiation of chloride-induced corrosion in reinforced concrete. Experimental results have demonstrated that the air-liquid configuration within these voids creates conditions that are highly favorable for the onset of corrosion. Building on these findings, the study further explores the mechanisms governing water transport and the temporal evolution of macro-void saturation within concrete. Particular emphasis is placed on the characterization of the air-liquid distribution in voids that are in direct contact with the steel surface. The results suggest that the initiation of chloride-induced corrosion extends beyond the concept of a critical chloride threshold alone and that the moisture content within macro-voids at the SCI constitutes an essential condition for corrosion onset. By correlating these observations with the initiation of corrosion, the research contributes to an improved mechanistic understanding of chloride-induced corrosion processes affecting steel embedded in concrete. This research has been conducted with the framework of the CORINT project, a SINERGIA collaboration among different Swiss institutes to elucidate the corrosion mechanisms of metals embedded in opaque porous media with imaging methodologies, mainly bi-modal X-ray and neutron computed tomography (X/n CT).
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published
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ETH Zurich
Event
European Corrosion Congress (EUROCORR 2026)
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Subject
Corrosion; Chloride; Reinforced concrete; X-ray computed tomography (XCT); Durability
Organisational unit
09593 - Angst, Ueli / Angst, Ueli