Long-term chloride-induced corrosion monitoring of reinforced concrete coated with commercial polymer-modified mortar and polymeric coatings

The efficiency of four commercial concrete coatings (a polymer modified cementitious mortar and three elastomeric coatings) against chloride-induced corrosion is discussed by means of steel corrosion long-term monitoring and by chlorides penetration profiles in concrete. The cement-based coating shows the best effect on delay chlorides penetration in concrete by acting as a physical barrier in addition to concrete cover. Despite its lower polymer content, the higher thickness guarantees a longer time-to-corrosion with respect to organic coatings. Once corrosion has started, corrosion rate is lower in the presence of coatings, due to their ability to reduce water ingress in concrete.