X-Ray Chemical Corrosion in Reinf Conc
X-Ray Chemical Corrosion in Reinf Conc
(OP)
I have a reinforced concrete building (1968) that I am adding some medical equipment to. During site investigation I found some severe corrosion on the floor structure that I am loading. The maintenance person said that there used to be a x-ray chemical lab above and the chemicals spilled and caused the damage. My initial thought was to reinforce the area but I have considered that a chemical reaction is still occurring and I possibly need to neutralize the corrosion first.
Has anyone come across this before?
Does anyone know the chemicals used in x-ray developers and fixers? (below is the best I could find so far)
Is neutralization necessary?
Is it possible that the chemicals have absorbed into the concrete and corroded beyond what is visible?
Developer contains:
Hydroquinone
Sodium Sulfite
Potassium Hydroxide
Water
Fixer contains:
Ammonium Thiosulfite
Acetic Acid
Aluminum Sulfate
Has anyone come across this before?
Does anyone know the chemicals used in x-ray developers and fixers? (below is the best I could find so far)
Is neutralization necessary?
Is it possible that the chemicals have absorbed into the concrete and corroded beyond what is visible?
Developer contains:
Hydroquinone
Sodium Sulfite
Potassium Hydroxide
Water
Fixer contains:
Ammonium Thiosulfite
Acetic Acid
Aluminum Sulfate





RE: X-Ray Chemical Corrosion in Reinf Conc
RE: X-Ray Chemical Corrosion in Reinf Conc
RE: X-Ray Chemical Corrosion in Reinf Conc
Rebar in concrete relies primarily on the alkalinity of the concrete to prevent corrosion. Absence of water and salts (primarily chlorides) is also important.
Acid neutralizes the alkalinity in the concrete, rebar corrodes. Frequent moisture will leach alkalinity out of the concrete, and leave white accretions on the surface (effloresence) - As a secondary effect, this also exposes the alkaline components more directly to carbon dioxide in the air, which also neutralizes alkalinity (carbonation.) Again we have reduced alkalinity and easier corrosion.
Have a concrete expert look at it.