Sustainability
Corrosion
Concrete is a widely used and durable construction material, but its long-term performance can be affected by factors such as erosion, fatigue, freeze–thaw cycles, and adverse chemical reactions. One of the most common durability concerns in reinforced concrete structures is the corrosion of embedded metals.
Corrosion of reinforcing steel most often occurs due to exposure to chlorides from sources such as seawater, roadway de-icing chemicals, and surrounding soils. Chloride contamination may also be introduced during construction through the use of chloride-containing set accelerators, contaminated aggregates, or non-potable mixing water.
Corrosion can also develop when the pH of the concrete surrounding the steel is reduced due to exposure to atmospheric carbon dioxide. This process, known as carbonation, gradually lowers the alkalinity of the concrete. When the carbonation front reaches the reinforcing steel, the protective environment is reduced, allowing corrosion to initiate.
Concrete Preservation
Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials in the world, and its production is associated with significant carbon emissions. Extending the useful life of existing concrete structures through informed decision-making can reduce the environmental impact associated with demolition and replacement.
Non-destructive and minimally invasive testing plays an important role in concrete preservation by providing accurate information about existing conditions. By documenting material performance, deterioration mechanisms, and hidden conditions, testing data allows owners and engineers to better understand when intervention is necessary and when structures can continue to perform as intended.
NDT Corporation supports sustainability in the built environment by providing objective testing data that helps owners and engineers make informed decisions about maintenance, rehabilitation, and preservation of concrete infrastructure.
Experience You Can Rely On
Founded in 1994, NDT has built a reputation for delivering reliable data, practical insight, and responsive service on technically complex projects. Our team combines decades of field experience with advanced testing technologies to produce results that are clear, defensible, and actionable for engineers and owners.