Author(s)

R. Brueckner, R. Merola, P. Lambert

Abstract

The corrosion of early 20th century steel-framed buildings is resulting in serious damage to the integrity and appearance of many historically important structures. Since the application of cathodic protection to steel framed buildings in the late 1990s it has been proven to provide a low intrusive and aesthetically acceptable technique for the conservation of heritage structures.

The principles of cathodic protection have not changed since its discovery by Humphry Davy in 1824 but have been adapted to a wide range of structures over the subsequent 190 years. The systems itself have been refined and improved over time except in the case of steel framed buildings where it is still in its early years.

This paper discusses the application of an innovative cathodic protection system on steel framed buildings that utilises a geopolymer with admixed carbon fibres. The system does not require the installation of additional discreet anodes and is in the form of a repointing mortar in the joints of the cladding from where it is able to provide protection. The principles of the system and its first commercial application are presented.

Keywords

steel framed, heritage, cathodic protection, geopolymer