Highways Agency Reports

Abstract: A range of factors relevant to the performance of epoxy coated reinforcement were examined in laborartory and eposure trials - coatingthichness measurement and variability, bar to concrete bond strength, coating adhension and corrosion resistance. Results showed that coating thickness varied but was not signification reduced over ribs and that gauges with small heads were needed to carry out measurements. No loss in bond strength was detected through the use of epoxy coated reinforcement. coating adhesion was reduced at bends but loss in adhesion was not a necessary prerequisite for initiation of corrosion. In exposure trials underfilm corrosion was detected on epoxy coated reinforcement but it was much less intense than corrosion on uncoated bar during the two year exposure period. Galvanic macroell corrosion currents were significantly reduced by the presence of the epoxy coating.