Title:
Condition Assessment of Launch Pad 39B
Author(s):
Richard E. Weyers, Alberto A. Sagüés, and Jerzy Z. Zemajtis
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
37
Issue:
11
Appears on pages(s):
45-53
Keywords:
carbonation, chloride, corrosion, resistivity
DOI:
Date:
11/1/2015
Abstract:
A detailed investigation of the condition of Launch Pad 39B at the John F. Kennedy Space Center was conducted after 40 years of service. Concrete environmental exposure conditions were identified and an investigation was developed following an initial site visit. The concrete and reinforcing steel were assessed using measurements of concrete resistivity, corrosion potential, corrosion rate, chloride contents, and carbonation depths. The results demonstrated that corrosion of the reinforcing steel was caused by carbonation released chlorides in concrete. A service life damage model was also developed and damage rates were projected for future maintenance requirements.