Carbonation Assessment

Carbonation assessment testing is used to determine the depth at which carbonation has penetrated into concrete. Carbonation reduces the natural alkalinity of concrete, which normally protects embedded steel reinforcement from corrosion. As carbonation progresses deeper into the concrete cover, the risk of reinforcement corrosion increases. Understanding carbonation depth helps engineers assess the long-term durability and condition of concrete structures.

Enquire about this test

The Process

Small areas of concrete are exposed or sampled and treated with a chemical indicator solution that reacts with the alkalinity of the material. This reaction clearly highlights the boundary between carbonated and non-carbonated concrete. The carbonation depth is measured and recorded to provide an indication of the extent of the process within the structure. The results can then be combined with other durability assessments where required.

The Reason

Carbonation is one of the most common deterioration mechanisms affecting reinforced concrete structures. As the carbonation front reaches the reinforcement level, the protective environment around the steel is reduced, allowing corrosion to begin. Identifying carbonation depth helps engineers understand whether reinforcement is at risk and whether remedial action may be required.

The Application

Carbonation assessment is commonly used during structural condition surveys, refurbishment planning, and durability investigations. It is particularly relevant for ageing concrete structures exposed to atmospheric conditions. The results help inform maintenance strategies, repair works, and long-term asset management decisions.

View more Concrete Assessment testing services:

Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity – Estimated Strength and Quality (Poles & Column Elements)

Ultrasonic testing applied to column-like elements such as poles to estimate concrete strength, uniformity, and potential internal defects.

Concrete Assessment

Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity Assessment

Non-destructive testing method that measures the speed of ultrasonic pulses through concrete to evaluate material quality and detect internal defects.

Concrete Assessment

Topographical Survey

Detailed mapping of ground levels and site features to support design, planning, and construction activities.

Concrete Assessment

Service Life Prediction Assessment & Modelling

Analytical modelling used to estimate the remaining service life of a structure based on material properties, exposure conditions, and deterioration mechanisms.

Concrete Assessment

Schmidt Hammer Rebound Assessment

Non-destructive surface hardness testing used to provide an indication of concrete strength within a defined test area.

Concrete Assessment

Reinforcement Survey 3D, Location and Diameter

Advanced scanning survey used to map reinforcement in three dimensions, identifying bar location, spacing, and diameter within structural elements.

Concrete Assessment

Reinforcement Survey 2D, Location and Diameter

Non-destructive scanning to identify the location, spacing, and diameter of reinforcement bars within concrete structures in two dimensions.

Concrete Assessment

Reinforcement Cover Survey (1m x 1m)

Measurement of the depth of concrete cover over reinforcement using non-destructive scanning methods across a defined grid.

Concrete Assessment

Reinforcement Corrosion Assessment

Evaluation of corrosion activity affecting embedded reinforcement within concrete structures using a combination of investigative techniques.

Concrete Assessment

PD 8050 Structural Assessment

Measurement of protective coating thickness on structural elements to verify adequate coverage and durability.

Concrete Assessment