Evaluation of the Performance of Reference Electrodes Embedded in ReinforcedConcrete

摘要

The study evaluates the suitability of graphite electrodes for imbedded referencecells in reinforced steel bridges which are cathodically protected with a sprayed zinc anode. It was assumed that a 100 (or 150) mV polarization decay criteria would be used. The work plan was divided into two parts: laboratory scale experimentation and computer simulation. The response of graphite probes to a varying electric potential was compared to that of an Orion silver-silver chloride electrode. Additionally, commercial and laboratory fabricated electrodes were compared and the effects of electrode conditioning was assessed. The graphite electrodes appear to be a suitable choice for a rugged monitor of the 100mV polarization decay when the cathodic protection system is deactivated, especially when a 3 electrode configuration is used.