Vectrode® Discrete-C Plus
Impressed Current Cathodic Protection Systems
Discrete cathodic protection anodes for reinforced concrete and steel framed structures.
Bok Tower
Lake Wales, Florida, United States
A landmark preservation project combining historic masonry repair with discreet, long-term corrosion protection.
Owner: Bok Sanctuary
Consultant: Matco Associates
Contractor: Concept Enterprises
The Bok Tower restoration has received two prestigious ICRI Awards: an Award of Excellence in the Longevity Category in 2025 and an Award of Excellence in the Historic Category in 2008. These honors reflect both the exceptional quality of the original preservation work and the proven long-term performance of the corrosion protection system.
Bok Tower, a nationally recognized landmark built in 1929, was facing serious corrosion-related deterioration by the early 2000s. A 2006–2007 restoration combined careful masonry repairs with a discreet ICCP system, preserving both the structure and its iconic appearance. Nearly 20 years later, the system continues to perform as intended.
The Problem
Built between 1927 and 1929, Bok Tower is a 205-foot-tall steel-framed structure clad in porous coquina brick and decorative marble. By the early 2000s, decades of moisture ingress (through the coquina and openings at the tower’s summit) had led to significant corrosion of the embedded structural steel. Expansion from corrosion caused cracking, bowing, and in some cases, complete masonry failure. The deterioration posed safety risks and threatened the long-term integrity of this nationally recognized landmark.
Our Solution
A major preservation project was carried out between 2006 and 2007. The restoration included selective demolition and reconstruction of deteriorated coquina brick, combined with the installation of a discrete anode Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) system.
The system was installed from the interior of the tower, maintaining the tower’s exterior appearance while delivering 360-degree corrosion protection to the steel frame. Structural steel members were cleaned and coated, and damaged coquina units were replaced using carefully documented patterns to match the original masonry. Specialized mortar was used to maintain both durability and aesthetic continuity.
The Result
The restoration preserved both the structural integrity and visual character of Bok Tower without altering its historic façade. The ICCP system was designed to deliver at least 25 years of corrosion protection and remains in active service today.
Update: System Performance After 20 Years
In 2020, nearly two decades after installation, a formal evaluation confirmed the ICCP system continues to operate effectively. The anodes remain active, corrosion rates are within target thresholds, and the structure shows no new signs of deterioration. Ongoing monitoring ensures continued protection, reinforcing the project’s success as a model for long-term preservation in historic masonry-clad buildings.
Technology Used
These innovative products and technologies were used on this project.