Modern infrastructure relies on concrete, which in turn relies very strongly on the strength of the embedded steel reinforcement. Although concrete takes care of compressive stresses, steel bars are used to deal with tensile stresses. Nevertheless, once these reinforcing bars rust, the structure of the entire building will be damaged. This is whereby reinforcement corrosion protection is very essential in determining the life span as well as the safety of concrete structures.

Reinforcement corrosion protection denotes a series of methods, materials and practices taken to prevent or slow the corrosion of concrete-encapsulated steel. The corrosion usually happens when water and oxygen along with other aggressive chemicals such as chlorides or carbon dioxide are available to pass through the concrete and come to the steel reinforcement. This causes rust to form and further expansion leads to cracking, spalling and consequently failure of structure.

To counter this, a number of reinforcement corrosion prevention methods are practiced at the construction and maintenance stages. This strategy of using low-permeable concrete of high quality is one of the most commonly implemented ones. The concrete itself prevents entry since it reduces the amount of water and ions. Chemical admixtures such as corrosion inhibitors provide further protection of the steel either through the formation of protective film or by binding the harmful ions.

The other widely used method of reinforcing corrosion protection is epoxy-coated reinforcing bars. A layer of epoxy, which does not allow moisture and corrosion substances to penetrate to the metal surface, coats these bars. Despite being effective, caution should be taken not to damage the coating when it is being transported and placed.

Cathodic protection is a superior reinforcement corrosion protection technique, applied in marine environments and where de-icing salt is being extensively used. It is an electrochemical method in which a slight electrical impulse is applied to the reinforcement overcoming the inherent corrosion. The most common form of this method is to protect the steel actively with sacrificial anodes or impressed current systems.

The other potential advancement which takes place in regards to the reinforcement corrosion protection is the incorporation of the corrosion resistant steel alloy like the stainless steel or the galvanized bars. Initially, they are, however, more costly, but they last longer, particularly in severe environments. Simultaneously, other surface treatments such silane sealers and waterproof coatings are used on concrete to restrict the entry of moisture which also leads to indirect protection of reinforcements.

Further, effective structural design contributes significantly to the corrosion of reinforcement. The concrete encapsulation of reinforced steel, ensuring adequate compaction when pouring concrete, and adequate steel reinforcement positioning are some of the most important procedures that will help diminish the probability of corrosion.

Corrosion protection of reinforcement cannot be overestimated as the age of infrastructure is growing and the environment requires more attention. It is not just the life of a structure which is extended, but it is keeping people safe, less costs on repairs and sustainability in building.

Finally, the corrosion protection through reinforcement is a complex method, which is based on the material science, construction techniques, and the maintenance of the decoration. Investing in effective corrosion protection measures, the builders and engineers can extend the life and strength of reinforced concrete structures so that they can last more than a decade.