Structural Concrete, Vol. 6, no. 3, September 2005
Long-term monitoring of electrically isolated post-tensioning tendons
B. Elsener, Institute of Materials Chemistry and Corrosion, ETH Zurich, Switzerland
Electrically isolated tendons with plastic ducts for internal grouted post-tensioning were developed about 15 years ago. This new generation of tendons offers enhanced corrosion protection of the steel strands and the possibility to monitor the corrosion protection by simple non-destructive measurements (electrical impedance). This paper reports practical experience on quality control and long-term monitoring of two flyovers with electrically isolated tendons in Switzerland. The results of impedance measurements are rationalised on the basis of a simple model of a capacitance C (of the polymer duct) in parallel to a resistance R (leaks, defects) that both have a clear physical meaning and depend on the length of the tendon. The penetration of (chloride-containing) water at defects of the duct will lead to a decrease of the resistance R of that tendon. Thus for the first time the corrosion protection of the structurally important post-tensioned tendons can be monitored during the whole service life of the structure.
