Development of Metals Corrosion Maps of Arkansas and Maintenance of Cross-Drains

Corrosion potential of metallic structures in alluvial soils is governed by chemical and electromagnetic properties of the soils. Geotechnical engineers are generally more concerned about different types of soils and their physical and mechanical properties than the chemical aspects. The main objective of this study is to analyze the geotechnical, electrochemical and electromagnetic properties of soils in Arkansas. Important parameters (e.g., soil resistivity) related to corrosion potential of metal culverts have been predicted through neural network (NN) models. The developed NN models have been trained and verified by using laboratory test results of soil samples collected from Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), and survey data obtained from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ). Finally, the Geographic Information System (GIS) based corrosion risk maps of three different types of metal pipes have been developed based on the available soil properties, metal properties, and water quality data. The developed maps will help ARDOT engineers to assess corrosion potential of metal pipes prior to the new construction and repair projects and use proper culvert and cross drain materials