Evaluation of selected corrosion protection systems for reinforced concrete structures in Kuwait.

Corrosion of reinforcement is reported to be the major form of concrete deterioration in Kuwait and other Arabian Gulf states. Significant corrosion-induced deterioration has occurred in reinforced concrete structures in the region within 10 to 15 yrs. of construction. This has led to structures with service lives far below the expected life of 50 yrs. or more, causing large expenditures to be made for premature repair or reconstruction. Application of corrosion protection systems in new construction is a practice that has been found to reduce the risk of corrosion in reinforced concrete structures worldwide. Such protection systems are not used under the normal concrete construction practice in Kuwait.
The primary objective of the proposed project is to identify corrosion protection systems that are most suitable for application in reinforced concrete structures in Kuwait. This objective will be accomplished by evaluating corrosion protection systems that are frequently considered in the Arabian Gulf region. Performance data will be established to enhance knowledge on the effectiveness of the protection systems under the environmental conditions in the region.
It is expected that if the use of corrosion protection systems becomes a part of the normal concrete construction practice in Kuwait, it will lead to an improvement in the life expectancy of buildings and hence to a significant reduction in expenditures on building construction, repair and maintenance.