Piezoelectric Sensors Enable Real-Time Monitoring of Steel Corrosion in Concrete Structures

¹ Research Scholar, Department of Civil Engineering, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Solan, H.P., India
² Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Solan, H.P., India

Abstract

The durability of reinforced concrete (RC) is an important topic nowadays. Corrosion of RC structures has been one of the major causes of structural failure. Corrosion in steel-reinforced is a time-dependent formula, hence real-time corrosion monitoring is not an easy task. In this study, real-time corrosion monitoring is done with the help of a piezoelectric sensor. Corrosion monitoring could limit the extent and location of needed repairs or replacements, and reduce rehabilitation costs. The M40 and M50 concrete grades were monitored in this study with the help of the non-destructive testing (NDT) method. It has been found that NDT methods are effective for assessing the effect of steel corrosion in RC structures, as well as assessing the structural integrity of the structure. An oscilloscope was used to record the individual ultrasonic waves for concrete grades M40 and M50. Furthermore, the ultrasonic waves obtained from both grades were compared and the best suitable grade of concrete in a real scenario was also suggested. These experimental results successfully detected and measured the rebar corrosion sensibly. In the industries of rebar corrosion, the research will provide diagnostic engineers and researchers with a refined experimental technique to compare different grades of concrete.