An Analysis of the Impact of Chloride-Induced Corrosion on Reinforced Concrete Structures in the Port of Cape Town

Corrosion of steel reinforcement is a main deterioration mechanism for reinforced concrete structures in the marine environment, where chloride ingress may cause severe and widespread damage. For infrastructure owners, an improved understanding of the particular environment can lead to the design of more durable structures, or the improved maintenance of existing structures, both leading to more effective investment decisions. The objective of this research were to perform as-built data collection, visual condition assessments and cover measurements on various reinforced concrete structures in the port of Cape Town, with the aim of drawing correlations between the parameters of marine exposure, cover depth, and age of structure to the damage rating related to chloride-induced corrosion.