Experiments were performed upon a series of pre-tensioned concrete
beams whereby these were subjected sequentially to accelerated tendon
corrosion via anodic polarization and then to cathodic over-protection. Lastly, the beams were autopsied, and the tendons were analyzed with regard to the extent of corrosion and occurrence of any fractures. A model was formulated which characterizes the stress state of a corroding tendon in concrete, and the data from the beams were evaluated within the context of this and of Constant Extension Rate Testing (CERT) results that were developed in companion research. Implications of the results with regard to criteria for qualification of precorroded pre-tensioned concrete members for cathodic protection are discussed.
Key Words: Prestressed concrete, tendon, corrosion damage, cathodic
protection, hydrogen embrittlement, cp criteria.