Properties and Performance of Novel Mg(OH)₂-Based Coatings for Corrosion Mitigation in Concrete Sewer Pipes

The biological activity occurring in urban sewerage systems usually leads to the (biogenic) corrosion of pipe infrastructure. Anti-corrosion coating technology was developed in an effort to protect sewer pipes from degradation. This study evaluates a new class of relatively low-cost magnesium hydroxide-based coatings, regarding their ability to adhere efficiently onto the concrete surface, and offer efficient corrosion protection. Six magnesium hydroxide-based coatings were prepared with the addition of two different types of cellulose, used as adhesion additives, and these were applied on concrete specimens. Pull-off measurements showed that the addition of higher amounts of cellulose could improve the coating adhesion onto the concrete surface. An accelerated sulfuric acid spraying test was used to evaluate the consumption time of the applied coatings and their efficiency in maintaining over time slightly alkaline pH values (above 8) on the coated/protected surfaces. At the end of spraying test, a mineralogical analysis of surface samples was performed, indicating that the formation of corrosion by-products (mainly gypsum) was increased when the added amount of cellulose was lower. Hardness and roughness measurements were also conducted on the concrete surfaces, revealing that the coatings helped the concrete surface to preserve its initial surface properties, in comparison to the uncoated specimens. A SEM/microstructure analysis showed that aggregates were formed (possibly consisting of Mg(OH)₂), affecting the reactivity of the protected surface against sulfuric acid attack.