Unveiling the Electrochemical Response of Reinforced Concrete Through EIS Analysis

• Grant number: 25/02880-5
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Visiting Researcher Grant - International
• Start date: June 15, 2025
• End date: August 14, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Interdisciplinary Subjects
• Principal Investigator: Guilherme Yuuki Koga
• Grantee: Guilherme Yuuki Koga
• Visiting researcher: Ricardo Pereira Nogueira
• Visiting researcher institution: Université de Grenoble, France
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Exatas e de Tecnologia (CCET). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

This project aims to host Prof. Dr. Ricardo Pereira Nogueira as a visiting researcher at the Department of Materials Engineering (DEMa) at UFSCar for a period of two months, strengthening the international collaboration between UFSCar and Université Grenoble Alpes (UGA). The proposed research focuses on applying Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) to investigate in detail the electrochemical response of reinforced concrete, analyzing different modeling approaches to interpret the electrochemical processes involved in steel corrosion in cementitious matrices. EIS is a widely used technique for characterizing the electrochemical behavior of materials, particularly useful for understanding the passivation and degradation of metallic reinforcements in concrete structures. In the context of this project, the goal is to deepen the understanding of the contribution of steel-cement and cement-matrix interfaces to the overall system response, enabling a more precise assessment of structure durability and the development of more resistant and sustainable materials. Prof. Nogueira's visit will not only contribute to the execution of these advanced studies but will also enhance the training of the DEMa research team, which includes faculty members, graduate students, and undergraduate research assistants, through training sessions and scientific discussions on advanced electrochemical characterization techniques. Additionally, this collaboration will promote the progress of ongoing funded projects, further consolidating the research group's expertise in corrosion and materials degradation. Among the current projects at DEMa, there are initiatives focused on developing new metallic alloys for more durable structural applications, as well as investigations into the compatibility between innovative steels and sustainable cementitious matrices. Prof. Nogueira's visit will be crucial in strengthening this research line, facilitating knowledge exchange and improving techniques used to characterize the electrochemical performance of studied materials. The partnership between the involved researchers has a well-established history of scientific collaboration, including joint publications and previous academic exchanges, ensuring a favorable environment for implementing innovative methodologies and achieving high-impact results in the field. Moreover, interaction with researchers from the Department of Civil Engineering (DECiv) at UFSCar will allow for the integration of different perspectives in studying the durability and performance of materials under real-world application conditions, reinforcing the multidisciplinary nature of the research. In a global scenario with an increasing demand for more sustainable and efficient construction materials, this project aims to contribute to the development of innovative solutions that can reduce environmental impact and extend the lifespan of reinforced concrete structures. Thus, the results obtained during Prof. Nogueira's visit are expected not only to advance knowledge on the mechanisms of steel corrosion and passivation in concrete but also to assist in developing more effective strategies for monitoring and mitigating corrosion in critical infrastructure. (AU)