The residual cross section factor as a key parameter for the static evaluation of corroding reinforced concrete structures
In this paper the development of a key parameter for the static evaluation of corroding steel reinforced concrete members is presented. Based on an extensive test series under defined laboratory conditions as well as outdoor exposure the time dependent morphology and thus the development of the residual cross section of reinforcement steel embedded in uncracked concrete with high chloride contents has been investigated. In order to reach that goal a cutting edge sensor system using the principle of optical triangulation has been applied. Based on the obtained results a so called Residual Cross Section Factor has been developed. Its value and time dependency is discussed linking it to further morphological key parameters such as the corroding surface area as well as the maximum pitting depth on the corroded steel probe. The applicability of the introduced factor in comparison to the well known pitting factor is presented and discussed.