Reaction between copper and reinforcing steel
Reaction between copper and reinforcing steel
(OP)
I have a project where it is proposed that copper grounding conductors will be compression crimped to a continuous loop of reinforcing steel in the building foundation. While the electrician seems very comfortable with the idea of the connection of the dissimilar metals, the communications engineering firm is not familiar with the system and has raised a red flag regarding possible corrosion of the reinforcing steel.
I am not familiar with the process either and would appreciate a little education on the matter or websites where I may conduct my own research.
Thanks.
I am not familiar with the process either and would appreciate a little education on the matter or websites where I may conduct my own research.
Thanks.





RE: Reaction between copper and reinforcing steel
When you connect two dissimilar metals, you can have what is called galvanic or bimetallic corrosion due to the different electrochemical potential of the materials.
In order to have corrosion you need to have an electrolyte in which the two metals are immersed. The electrochemical potential depends on the type of electrolyte, eg in sea water is different from potable water.
Copper and Carbon steel, the reinforcing steel are usually a carbon steel materials, if connected and immersed in an electrolyte will give you galvanic corrosion, copper will be cathodic and not corroding while carbon steel will be anodic and corroding.
In your case you need to define if there is the possibility that at the interfaces between the two metals there could be water, maybe condensing humidity or rainy water.
If you need more look in this page for basic of bimetallic corrosion & galvanic series of metals:
http:/
hope this help
Strider
http://www.corrosionist.com
RE: Reaction between copper and reinforcing steel
"When the eagles are silent, the parrots begin to jabber."
Winston Churchill
RE: Reaction between copper and reinforcing steel
RE: Reaction between copper and reinforcing steel
If you coat the anodic part, and you have a defect in the coating then there will be a very small anodic area where all the current will flow and corrode very fast.
regards
Strider
http://www.corrosionist.com
RE: Reaction between copper and reinforcing steel
So it is my understanding that the Cu and Fe will not physically be in contact with one another.
RE: Reaction between copper and reinforcing steel
This is why you use heavy Cu plated steel ground rods and drive them 8' into the earth.
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RE: Reaction between copper and reinforcing steel
My concern is regarding possible galvanic corrosion of the connected dissimilar metals, not the grounding.
RE: Reaction between copper and reinforcing steel
RE: Reaction between copper and reinforcing steel
No, because most or all of the cathode is coated.
"When the eagles are silent, the parrots begin to jabber."
Winston Churchill