Kantavuuskorro

Kantavuuskorro is a Finnish term that translates to "bearing capacity corrosion" or "load-bearing capacity corrosion" in English. It refers to a type of corrosion that occurs in structural elements, particularly in concrete or composite materials, when the material is subjected to sustained loads or stresses. This corrosion is not solely a chemical process but is influenced by mechanical factors.

The phenomenon typically affects materials where a protective layer or internal structure is compromised by the applied load. For instance, in reinforced concrete, sustained tensile stress can lead to microcracking, which then allows corrosive agents like moisture and chlorides to penetrate deeper and reach the reinforcing steel more readily. This accelerates the corrosion process of the steel.

Similarly, in some composite materials, the constant stress can cause fatigue or delamination, creating pathways for environmental degradation. The presence of the load can also alter the electrochemical potential within the material, further driving the corrosion reaction.

Understanding kantavuuskorro is crucial for the long-term durability and safety of structures. It necessitates considering not only the material's resistance to chemical attack but also its behavior under mechanical stress over time. Design and maintenance strategies for structures susceptible to this type of corrosion must account for the combined effects of load and environmental exposure.