Migrating corrosion inhibitors for steel in concrete - truths and mirages

Problems related with the application of penetrating corrosion inhibitors for steel in concrete are outlined. Presented data are taken from published reports and authors' own studies. Records on the penetration rate of these inhibitors in concrete and time from the inhibitor application on the surface of reinforced concrete till the achievement of its concentration at the steel surface, which is necessary for the inhibition of steel corrosion are reviewed. The efficiency of these inhibitors in chloride contaminated and carbonated concrete are compared. Possible reasons of the observed big discrepancy in published data on the performance of penetrating corrosion inhibitors are indicated.