Usage
In the high alkalinity of concrete, reinforcing steel builds up a natural passivation layer. This layer protects the steel from corrosion. This passive ferric oxide layer however can be damaged by the presence of chlorides and combined with the presence of moisture and oxygen which will lead to corrosion of the steel.
Sika® CNI will help oxidize the steel to form ferric oxide, which resists chloride attack. This reduces the areas of ferrous oxide ions that are susceptible to attack by chlorides. Ferrous oxide creates a ferrous oxide complex (rust), if attacked by chlorides. In the presence of these chlorides, rust continues to generate in these areas (corrosion pits) and ultimately leads to staining, cracking and spalling of the
concrete.
Sika® CNI fortifies the ferric oxide passivating layer prior to the penetration of chlorides. The nitrite ions in Sika® CNI will convert ferrous oxide to more resistant ferric oxide, thereby protecting the steel reinforcement from corroding.