Effect of Carbon Content and Cold Working on Corrosion Resistance of High-Strength Steel in Concrete - Student Nicholas Allan

Project Member(s): Vessalas, K.

Funding or Partner Organisation: Technologies in Structural Engineering Pty Ltd

Start year: 2013

Summary: Project Scope and Research Objectives The research being carried out seeks to investigate the effects of carbon content, strain hardening and heat treatments on the resistance to corrosion of three types of steel commonly used in concrete, these being reinforced steel, prestressed steel and steel fibres. The dominant types of corrosion and associated corrosive actions that have an effect on steel will also be studied. By understanding the processes and mechanisms involved in corrosion, and examining how the carbon content and steel microstructure of the concrete affects the type of corrosion that manifests, a qualitative magnitude of corrosion will be extrapolated that is attributable to the various strengthening elements and processes used to manufacture steel products. This study will lead to a greater understanding of corrosion resistant strengthening processes providing further insight into corrosion optimised strengthening schedules (i. e., carbon content, strain hardening and heat treatments required to reach desired grades of strength whilst maximising corrosion resistance). By addressing the carbon content, strain hardening and heat treatments, the strength versus corrosion resistance trade-off will be analysed by examining the specific factors, which are internal to the steel microstructure. This project seeks to explore these outcomes through the review of currently available literature.

Keywords: Corrosion, reinforcing steel, prestressing steel, steel fibres, concrete, carbon content, strain hardening, heat treatment

FOR Codes: Construction Materials, Basic Metal Products (incl. Smelting, Rolling, Drawing and Extruding) not elsewhere classified, Basic metal products not elsewhere classified

Acknowledgement of Country

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.