Projects
These systems are themselves protected by cementitious matrices—gridded moulds filled with mortar—which tend to acidify quickly and need to be repaired or replaced every 5 – 15 years. This can cost infrastructure owners millions, while the mortar used in repairs can limit conductivity, reducing the effectiveness of the protection systems.
This project led by the University of Sydney will develop a longer-lasting cementitious matrix for impressed current cathodic protection systems. Researchers will develop this mortar from recycled waste and other sustainable materials such as slag, silica fume, fly ash, recycled carbon fibres, and ion exchangers. They will conduct lab tests and field trials to verify the new mortar’s long-term performance compared to the conventional material used in local bridges. After verifying its effectiveness in real-world conditions, researchers will develop guidelines and specifications to go into existing standards to encourage widespread adoption. In this way, the project will extend the service life of bridges, improve public safety, and create market opportunities for cementitious matrices.
PROJECT PARTNERS
