Effect of chloride concentration on the performance of impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) for reinforced concrete: Experimental research versus numerical modelling

¹ Odisee University College, Applied Sciences and Technology, DUBiT Research Unit, Belgium
² SANACON bv, Ghent University spin-off, Nijverheidsweg 1/A, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
³ University of Antwerp, Faculty of Applied Engineering, EMIB Research Group, Belgium

^* Corresponding author: robin.debaene@odisee.be

Abstract

The design of an impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) system is influenced by the distribution of current and potential towards the different reinforcement layers of a reinforced concrete (RC) structure. To enhance ICCP efficiency, numerical simulations are crucial for predicting current distribution and optimizing the system performance, material use, and costs. This research investigates the effect of the chloride concentration on the performance of an ICCP system using a TiMMO mesh anode in a mortar overlay. Two concrete specimens, both with two reinforcement layers, are the subject of this study. The chloride content is being varied, using 2 % and 3 % mass by weight of cement. Using the finite element method (FEM), simulations of current and potential distribution within these elements are conducted and validated against the experimental results. Both stationary and time-dependent studies are performed to evaluate the impact of temperature and the internal concrete humidity on the cathodic protection system over time. These findings provide key insights into the performance and behaviour of ICCP systems.