Durability and impact performance of concrete beam coated with polyurea

Polyurea, a versatile and highly durable elastomeric coating, has gained attention in recent years for its potential to enhance the ductility and strength of concrete structures. This study investigates the durability of polyurea-coated prestressed concrete beams under accelerated aging conditions (chloride-induced corrosion), followed by bending and impact testing to evaluate the mechanical effects of the polyurea coating. Results demonstrate that polyurea significantly enhances load capacity, ductility, and resilience against corrosion, effectively protecting structural integrity over time. Specifically, coated beams show a 16 % improvement in maximum load and an 81 % increase in deflection, while uncoated beams experience notable degradation due to corrosion. In impact tests, polyurea-coated beams absorb forces more effectively, showing reduced peak loads, minimized structural damage, and greater post-impact recovery, with a coefficient of restitution of 41–61 % for the uncoated beams and 71–77 % for the polyurea-coated beams. These benefits make polyurea a coating material, capable of extending the lifespan of concrete structures in corrosive and impact-prone environments.