Breugel: The Integration of EIS Parameters and Bulk Matrix Characterization in… 15

Corrosion in reinforced concrete is a major and costly concern, arising from the higher complexity of involved phenomena on different levels of material science (e.g. electrochemistry, concrete material science) and material properties (macro/micro / nano). Reinforced cement-based systems (e.g. reinforced mortar and concrete) are multi-phase composite materials at different levels of aggregation. Hence, multi-phase interfaces are involved in their structural performance and material behavior. Reinforced concrete has the potential to be durable and capable of withstanding a variety of adverse environmental conditions. One of the major difficulties in the engineering practice, however, is the multi-dimensional nature of reinforcement corrosion related issues. Nevertheless, materials and processes involved in the service life of a civil structure and their interaction are independently weighed and are seldom brought together. Very often the design of concrete mix proportions and the design of protective measures (such as the application of coatings or electrochemical techniques) are made in separate steps and (positive or negative) interactions among themselves are neglected. This work reports on the integration of fundamental electrochemical techniques (as Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) and concrete material science (bulk matrix properties) within monitoring and assessment of the corrosion performance of reinforced cement-based materials. Further, hereby discussed is the implementation of an eco-friendly approach of waste utilization for corrosion control and/or achieving superior properties and performance