Effectiveness of Sacrificial Anodes in High-resistivity Shotcrete Repairs

Report No: 05-R25

Published in 2005

About the report:

This study investigated the use of discrete sacrificial anodes to improve the durability and extend the life of a shotcrete patch repair in a column. Three columns were used in the investigation. In two columns, anodes were placed around the perimeter of the repair area. In a third column, used as a control, anodes were not placed inside the repair area. Shotcrete was then placed in the repair areas of all three columns. The study found that the current density level needed to improve the resistance of the steel to chloride-induced corrosion is being met. In addition, the anode current is able to reach a distance of 16 cm from the anode center, meeting the requirements for cathodic prevention within this region. A cost analysis, using the capital recovery method, indicated that repairs using shotcrete plus cathodic protection will cost less than repairs using shotcrete alone.

Disclaimer Statement:The contents of this report reflect the views of the author(s), who is responsible for the facts and the accuracy of the data presented herein. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the Virginia Department of Transportation, the Commonwealth Transportation Board, or the Federal Highway Administration. This report does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation. Any inclusion of manufacturer names, trade names, or trademarks is for identification purposes only and is not to be considered an endorsement.

Authors

Other Authors

Michael C. Brown, Ph.D., P.E.

Last updated: November 29, 2023

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