Propagation of chloride induced corrosion in reinforced concrete structures after application of an external thermal insulation system

The application of an External Thermal Insulation Composite System (ETICS) to enhance the energy efficiency of buildings can significantly affect the penetration of aggressive agents (such as chlorides, CO2 , water, etc.), thereby mitigating the degradation processes of reinforced concrete structures. ETICS can also be implemented on existing structures where reinforcement corrosion has already initiated, but the concrete still appears sound and no inspection have been carried out to assess the condition of the structure. This paper reports the results of an experimental study on the effects of ETICS on reinforced concrete elements contaminated by chlorides, in which corrosion had already initiated. The specimens were subjected to accelerated wet/dry cycles to simulate atmospheric exposure conditions. The findings indicate that the insulated specimens exhibit a progressive drying behavior over time, which contributes to slowing down the corrosion propagation of the reinforcement.