Challenge
The concrete foundations at PDO’s Runib Switchyard were experiencing visible cracking, spalling, and delamination. The structures were over twenty years old, with repairs made in 2002 – some of which had already failed again. The main threat to the structural integrity of buildings in this region lies in the highly saline soil and shallow groundwater. The prevalence of Sabkha in the Gulf region introduces highly corrosive mineral deposits in the soil with salinity levels exceeding three times that in seawater.
Application
A field investigation was done by United Corrosion Technologies to determine the cause of the failure and it was confirmed that the failure was due to the ingress of chlorides from the soil. A repair methodology was developed to prevent structural failures, extend the switchyard’s service life, and allow for safe application in the live station.
United Corrosion Technologies provided a supervisor to oversee the project and to assure that all procedures were strictly followed.
Conclusion
It was estimated that concrete foundations were given an extended service life of 30 years after the repair. This extended service life is derived from the proper execution of repair utilizing patented MCI® technology. Cortec’s patented MCI® technology protects reinforcing metal in concrete from corrosion, therefore, extending its service life. Being bio-based, it is environmentally friendly and safe. It is NSF-61 certified for use with potable water.
Distributor United Corrosion Technologies
Consultant Worley Parsons
Products MCI® 2020 CorrVerter® MCI® Mini-Grenades