1mW RC003

1mW Reinforced Concrete Design to Eurocode 003

Structure Exposure Class

The surrounding environment of a concrete member influences its requirement on mix and cover.

There are generally six classes for exposure environment. The first one is the environment where no risk of corrosion will occur. This is usually applicable to reinforced concrete with very low humidity.

Carbonation-induced corrosion is often due to non-aggressive water and soil. Chloride-induced corrosion will occur for members submerge in swimming pools or industrial waters that may contain chlorides.

There are also cases where the concrete is in contact with sea water. Moreover, some exposures are more adverse and may launch aggressive attack such as chemical, freeze and thaw on the concrete.