This paper presents the use of an innovative low cost sensor for monitoring corrosion of steel membersembedded in concrete. Corrosion of steel reinforcing bars or embedded steel in concrete structuralcomponents is a major concern for structures such as bridges and parking garages. Moisture andchloride ingress through the cracks is the primary reason for corrosion of such concrete structures. Thechloride and moisture levels significantly affect the electrical conductivity of concrete. A low cost sensorfor measuring concrete resistivity (or conductivity) was developed by researchers at West VirginiaUniversity. This sensor is very durable and can be embedded in concrete members (beams, columns,etc.) at the time of pouring concrete. The electrical resistivity measurement obtained using this sensorcan be used to evaluate the potential for corrosion of embedded steel. This paper presents laboratoryand field results obtained using the sensor to demonstrate its usefulness. The paper also highlights thesimplicity and ease of use of this sensor. In addition, the paper also discusses the use of acommercially available temperature/humidity sensor that can be used in conjunction with the electricalresistivity sensor for a comprehensive assessment of the potential for corrosion of steel embedded inconcrete.
A low-cost measurement device for recording perceptions of thermal comfort