Epoxy-coated reinforcement in concrete structures: results of a Swiss pilot project after 24 years of field exposure

Reinforced concrete is the most common construction material of civil infrastructure. In severe environment, e.g. chloride exposure, concrete deterioration can occur with consequences on the durability of the structure. The use of epoxy-coated reinforcement is a strategy to control chloride induced reinforcement corrosion, particular by prolonging the initiation and propagation phase. The epoxy-coating acts as a physical barrier to chlorides and the electrolyte concrete. However, the effectiveness of the strategy in chloride environment and the corrosion performance of ECR in presence of coating defects is investigated by condition assessment of a Swiss pilot project after 24 years of field exposure