There are a variety of physical and chemical factors that adversely affect the strength and integrity of the concrete reinforcement. Among them, corrosion tops the list. Corrosion of reinforcing steel creates volumetric expansion in the rebar, producing tensile stresses in the concrete, eventually causing cracks, delamination, and spalling.
If left unchecked or unrepaired, the minor cracks and chipping can deplete concrete’s durability, further disintegrating the structure. That is why we need a reliable technique to prevent or at least delay the corrosion of steel reinforcement bars. That is where Cortec’s industry-leading portfolio of Migrating Corrosion Inhibitor™ (MCI®) products comes into play.
What is MCI® Technology?
Cortec Corporation’s patented MCI® (Migrating Corrosion Inhibitors) Technology is powerful corrosion inhibiting technology used to extend the service life of reinforced concrete structures significantly. Even though various corrosion mitigation methods are available on the market, MCI® has become a reliable and highly sought-after choice due to its economics and ease of application.
MCI® is a relatively new set of corrosion inhibitors based on amine technology. MCI® is classified as mixed inhibitors, meaning they affect both anodic and cathodic portions of a corrosion cell. When applied, Cortec MCI® diffuses through the concrete pores and forms a monomolecular layer between the rebar and concrete, thereby delaying the initiation or propagation of corrosion. They can be used as a preventative measure to protect a new concrete structure from premature corrosion as well as repair techniques for existing structures.
How Does Cortec® MCI® technology Work?
Cortec MCI® Technology can be used as concrete admixtures by adding them to new concrete at the ready-mix plant or construction site. Furthermore, it can be used to repair the existing structure with topical treatment. When applied, Cortec® MCI® ingresses through the porous concrete mix by capillary action, vapor diffusion and ionic attraction. When the inhibitors come into contact with the rebar, it forms a protective molecular layer, preventing the corrosive elements from further reacting with the embedded metal. The dense layer of monomolecular thickness inhibits the onset of steel rebar corrosion, thus greatly extending the concrete durability and service life.
Repair and rehabilitation of concrete with Cortec® MCI® Technology add safety, reliability, and functionality to your structure. In addition, it improves the aesthetical appeal and water tightness of the concrete structure. Some of the Cortec® MCI® products that prove effective in preventing corrosion of concrete structures are as follows:
- MCI®-2005
- MCI®-2020
- MCI®-309
- MCI® PTC Emitters
- MCI® Minigrenades
- MCI® CorShield®
- MCI® 2018
- CorrVerter®
- MCI® 2061
What Are The Major Benefits of Cortec® MCI® Technology?
Cortec’s MCI® technology offers practical, cost-effective alternatives to help protect existing concrete structures from corrosion and extend service life. This time-proven corrosion inhibiting technology is a greener choice as it has lower toxicity and environmental impact than traditional corrosion inhibiting admixtures. Moreover, Cortec® MCI® is based on renewable resources (amine alcohols and amine carboxylates), contributing to meeting sustainability standards.
These inhibitors can be used in small quantities, and the required dosage rate is independent of chloride levels. Cortec® MCI® products are also certified by UL to meet NSF/ANSI Standard 61 for use in potable water structures. Using Cortec’s MCI® for concrete repair helps in increasing the durability, integrity and service life of the existing reinforced structures. Since MCI® products can be easily applied by spray, brush or roller and only needs minimal curing time, it is an ideal solution for repairing and rehabilitating reinforced concrete structures.
To learn more about our MCI® products and how they can be used to protect and repair reinforced concrete structures, talk with our experts today.
