The influence of micro algae on corrosion of steel in fly ash geopolymer concrete: a preliminary study

Abstract

Chloride is not the only main cause of corrosion of reinforced concrete structures in seawater environment. Microorganisms, such as bacteria and microalgae, in the seawater can induce microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) that leads to degradation of the concrete structures by formation of biofilm on the metallic surface. In this preliminary study, the impact of microalgae on the corrosion of steel reinforced bars in fly ash geopolymer concrete was studied. Corrosion potential, algae cells number, and pH measurement were carried out for fly ash geopolymer concrete and a control mix (Ordinary Portland Cement) samples. The results indicate that the corrosion potential of fly ash geopolymer concrete was influenced by the cathodic reaction during photosynthesis activities. The geopolymer concrete in algae-inoculated medium was found to be more tolerant to algal growth than the control mix (OPC concrete). There was a positive correlation between algae cell densities and the potential reading of the geopolymer