Corrosion of steel in concrete is typically studied in uncracked concrete. Field concretes, however, often have cracks that extend down to the reinforcing steel. In this paper electrochemical corrosion testing in cracked concrete of two qualities is performed and compared to the physical examination of the embedded reinforcement. The resistance to corrosion is significantly improved as the concrete properties and reinforcement cover approach that recommended in ACI 318. Calcium nitrite (DCI Corrosion Inhibitor1) additions to the concrete significantly reduce corrosion. The results indicate that testing in cracked concrete should be conducted in concrete that is representative of that specified in ACI 318.

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