Crack closure and rehabilitation of chloride contaminated reinforced concrete structures

Abstract

Apparatus to electrodeposit a chemical composition into cracks in concrete filling same is disclosed. The apparatus is comprised of a dam (reservoir) which is placed over the crack to be filled, an electrolyte which is received within the dam (reservoir), a direct current power source and an electrode which is received within the electrolyte and acts as an anode. The steel reinforcing rods within the concrete act as the cathode. Application of direct current from the power source to the electrode and the reinforcing rods causes the electrodeposition of a chemical composition into the crack filling same and the repassivation of the reinforcing rods within the concrete.

1 ) Apparatus for electrodepositing a chemical composition into a crack in concrete having reinforcing rods therein comprising a reservoir for placement over the crack in the concrete, an electrolyte received within said reservoir, an electrode received within said electrolyte and an electrical power source having a first terminal connected to said electrode and a second terminal connected to said reinforcing rods within the concrete.  
   
   
       2 ) The apparatus as defined in  claim 1  wherein said electrolyte is comprised of a composition of dialkylamino alkanoate salt and barium methaborate.  
   
   
       3 ) The apparatus as defined in  claim 2  wherein said dialkylamino alkanoate salt is in isopropanol and natural spirits.  
   
   
       4 ) The apparatus as defined in  claim 2  wherein said dialkylamino alkanoate salt is about 2.5% by weight of said composition.  
   
   
       5 ) The apparatus as defined in  claim 2  wherein said barium methaborate is about 2.0% by weight of said composition.  
   
   
       6 ) The apparatus as defined in  claim 1  wherein said electrode is formed from steel mesh.  
   
   
       7 ) The apparatus as defined in  claim 1  wherein said electrical power source is a direct current power source.