Galvanic protection systems utilize dissimilar metals to provide protection to embedded reinforcing steel. When two metals are coupled together in an electrolyte, the metal with the higher potential for corrosion (more electronegative) will corrode in preference to the more noble metal. In the case of concrete, zinc is used to provide galvanic protection to the steel. This type of system does not require on-going monitoring and is suitable for conventionally reinforced and prestressed/post-tensioned concrete.

The following additional information is available:

Vector Galvanode® ASZ+
Humectant-activated Zinc Metalizing for Corrosion Protection of Concrete Structures

Vector Galvanode ASZ+ humectant-activated metalized zinc is used to provide galvanic corrosion protection to reinforced concrete structures that are subject to corrosive conditions. Galvanode ASZ+ produces a higher current density than traditional zinc metalizing making it suitable for providing corrosion protection to structures exposed to both marine and non-marine environments. With the Galvanode ASZ+ process, a thin coating of metallic zinc is sprayed onto the surface of the concrete and electrically connected to the embedded reinforcing steel. After installation of the metalized zinc coating, Vector Galvanode Humectant activator solution is applied to the surface of the zinc to achieve a higher level of current output and protection.

Applications:

Bridge piers Marine structures Parking garages Industrial plants Power plants Conventionally reinforced concrete Prestressed/post-tensioned concrete Galvanic or Impressed Current Cathodic     Protection (ICCP)

Features and Benefits

	Excellent protection - protective current delivered by humectant activation is enhanced by up to 7 times over untreated zinc (depending upon environmental conditions) thus delivering a high level of initial polarization to control active corrosion. If a higher level of current is required in the future to achieve sufficient polarization of the steel, the humectant activator may be reapplied.
	Reduced circuit resistance - provides more uniform protection and anode consumption over time.
	Enhanced bond strength - independent studies have shown that humectant-activated arc spray zinc has a higher long-term bond strength thus resulting in a longer anticipated anode life.
	Successful history - metalized zinc anodes operating in both galvanic and impressed current mode have an excellent track record of performance.
	Economical - no power supply and system wiring is required when installed and operated in galvanic mode thus reducing installation and maintenance costs.
	Low maintenance - requires no external power source or system monitoring.
	Activated zinc - prevents surface from drying out, thus maintaining humidity levels within the surface concrete.
	Long service life - 10 to 20 year service life* reduces the need for future repairs.

*As with all galvanic protection systems, service life is dependent upon a number of factors including reinforcing steel density, concrete conductivity, chloride concentration, humidity and anode thickness.