Recent research work has shown, that the carbonation rate under sheltered conditions is faster than expected to date. Within the first three sub-projects the CO2-content in road tunnels and the influence of the relative humidity on the carbonation rate and the carbonation coefficients, respectively, of various concrete mixes (different cement types and w/c-ratios) will be investigated. With this work the base for the models to predict the carbonation over time of concrete with various cement types and w/c-ratios under sheltered and unsheltered conditions, e.g. in road tunnels, can be improved substantially.
Within the framework of the other sub-projects the influence of the relative humidity on the corrosion rate of rebars will be investigated with special test specimens (350x180x120 mm3), reinforced with ordinary and stainless steel rebars. The corrosion measurements on the test specimens (corrosion potential, electrical concrete resistance, macroelement current etc.) will be carried out in a climate chamber and under sheltered outdoor conditions. 5 years old specimens of another project can be used for it. Additionally, new specimens with other cement types and w/c-ratios will be fabricated and tested. With the results the corrosion risk of the rebar in carbonated concrete in dependence on the concrete composition and concrete cover (e.g. underside of bridge decks, road tunnels) and the corrosion rate of the rebar under various exposure conditions will better be assessed and estimated (forecast of the condition development).
These investigations will provide an important contribution to avoid long term corrosion damages of the rebar due to the carbonation of concrete.