Next-Generation Connectionless Technology for Measuring Rebar Corrosion Rates

Corrosion of reinforcing steel is a major durability challenge, and existing corrosion-rate measurement methods are limited by long testing times, required rebar connections, and unreliable assumptions. This study evaluates the Connectionless Electrical Pulse Response Analysis (CEPRA) technique, which determines the polarization resistance/corrosion rate utilizing a short voltage pulse without rebar contact, using laboratory and field studies. In the laboratory study, 16 concrete blocks with varying chloride contents, cover depths, and bar diameters were tested. CEPRA measurements were compared with ASTM G1 mass-loss results. The technique accurately captured active corrosion behavior and reliably indicated passive conditions.