Lessons in Galvanic Cathodic Protection Technology from Soldier Field and the Franklin Avenue Bridge

Design of galvanic cathodic protection systems requires proper consideration of five key design factors, which are particularly relevant for historic structures. Deterioration of older reinforced concrete structures is commonly caused by one or more of four mechanisms: chlorideor carbonation-induced corrosion of embedded steel, freeze-thaw deterioration of non-air-entrained concrete, and deterioration of the concrete matrix due to deleterious internal chemical reactions. These deterioration mechanisms must be addressed in order to achieve successful rehabilitations (Fig. 1).