Prevention of Corrosion in Post-Tensioned Structures: Electrically Isolated Tendons

Post-tensioning structures with metallic ducts risk corrosion, rupture or collapses due to chloride ingress. The use of tight corrugated polymer combined electrically isolated anchorages (EIT) changed the situation. Laboratory and many field applications proved tightness duct, showing resistance values higher much than 50 kΩm, acceptance criteria for a duct. most important fact is that EIT tendons allow quality control long-term monitoring duct tightness. (also below threshold criteria) can be monitored over whole service life: only progressive decrease measured indicates corrosion this specific tendon. structural elements easily first time damage initiation detected early. After successful in Europe technology now expanding progressively US.