Remove
loose rust from the reinforcement steel by mechanical means like wire
brushing, sandblasting etc.
Because
of rust, if the reduction in size of reinforcing bar is considerable check
the structure stability. If required provide additional reinforcement with
treatment given below.
Using
cotton waste swab or waste cloth apply ‘Rusticide’ solution to the steel.
This will remove the residual rust and also render the surface of the
steel passive so as to prevent fresh corrosion. Allow to remain for at
least 24 hours and then brush off any loose particles by means of a dry
paint brush.
Ideally,
the condition around the steel should remain permanently alkaline in the
pH range of 11.50 to 13.00 so that the corrosion can be altogether
avoided. A slurry of ‘Polyalk Fixoprime’ + cement in the weight proportion
of 1:1.50 provides extremely alkaline and Polymeric protection to the
steel due to the extraordinary bonding capacity of the polymer. Hence,
give a brush coating of this slurry to the entire exposed, chemically
de-rusted surface. Care should be taken that even the minutest part of the
steel is not been left uncovered. Preferably, two coats at interval of
four hours be given.
If
possible, this slurry can be injected in the concrete along the steel so
that the portion of the steel embedded in the concrete can also be kept in
permanent alkaline condition.
