RCC Cancer: How Hidden Leaks Destroy Buildings
The Silent Structural Killer
'RCC Cancer' refers to the oxidation of steel reinforcements inside concrete. When water reaches the rebar, the steel rusts, expands, and cracks the concrete from the inside out.
The Cycle of Decay:
- Seepage: Water penetrates through hairline cracks or porous plaster.
- Carbonation: The alkalinity of concrete drops, losing its protective layer for the steel.
- Spalling: The rusted steel expands up to 7 times its size, causing chunks of concrete to fall off (spalling).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, through polymer-modified mortar (PMM) repairs and epoxy injections, provided the damage hasn't compromised the core column.
The high chloride content in Mumbai's coastal air accelerates the rusting process significantly.
