Influence of cement type in reinforcement corrosion of mortars under action of chlorides

In addition to the technological and environmental factors, the corrosion caused by chloride ions is strongly influenced by the type of cement used in concrete; however, currently, cement is manufactured and specified without taking into account its resistance to the action of aggressive agents. Given this context, a study on the protective capacity of some types of cement (CPII-Z-32, CPIII-40 and CPIV-32) was conducted regarding the reinforcement structure under the action of chloride ions. The specimen molded with CPIII-40 cement clearly showed high resistance to corrosion caused by chloride ions, high compressive strength, and low capillary absorption.

► Increasing the curing period has improved the cement performance.
► Water–cement ratio presented itself as the most important factor to increase the durability, followed by the cement type.
► The CPIII-40 cement had the best performance with respect to corrosion by chloride ions to both water–cement ratios studied.
► To increase the durability in structures the cement to be used must be specified according to environmental conditions.