Corrosion of embedded reinforcement is the single largest cause of concrete deterioration in the UK built environment. Once chlorides reach the steel, or carbonation lowers the pH of the concrete cover, the steel starts to corrode. The corrosion products expand, cracking and spalling the surrounding concrete. Patch repair alone does not stop this process. It often accelerates it in adjacent areas through the incipient anode effect.
Cathodic and corrosion protection systems address the underlying electrochemical process rather than just the visible damage. Applied correctly, these systems can extend the service life of a concrete structure by decades, often at a fraction of the cost of continued reactive repair or eventual replacement.
CRS delivers the full range of cathodic and corrosion protection systems used in the UK market. Impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) for large-scale infrastructure and long-term protection of high-value assets. Galvanic (sacrificial) anode systems for smaller structures and localised protection around repair patches. Corrosion inhibitors applied to the concrete surface or introduced during repair. Hybrid systems combining approaches where the structure requires it.
System design is critical. The wrong system, or a correctly-chosen system installed incorrectly, delivers little benefit and can create false confidence. CRS works with system suppliers, structural engineers and corrosion specialists to ensure the specified system suits the structure, the exposure environment and the intended service life. Where clients need design input at specification stage, our consultancy service supports this.
Installed systems require monitoring. Impressed current systems in particular need regular verification of protection levels, adjustment of driving currents, and periodic anode replacement. CRS can be appointed for the installation only, or on an ongoing basis to monitor and maintain the system across its operational life.