Field Application of Cathodic Prevention on Reinforced Concrete Structures

Abstract This paper illustrates the results gained during the first three years of cathodic protection application to Frejus highway viaducts in northern Italy. CP applications deal with corrosion control of chloride contaminated structures (cathodic protection application properly said) and the corrosion prevention of new non-contaminated structures, constructed with incorporated cathodic protection systems (so-called cathodic prevention). Both normal and post-tensioned structures are present: in the latter case the problems connected with the risk of hydrogen embrittlement of the tendons are discussed. The paper illustrates also the computerized system for gathering and monitoring data and the criteria adopted to evaluate and control the cathodic protection and cathodic prevention conditions as well as to avoid overprotection.