This paper reviews the principles of cathodic corrosion protection and the different ways zinc anodes are applied to reinforced concrete through wire arc spraying. It also explains how the lifetime of zinc coatings can be extended with an organic topcoat and presents related test data. Paper includes a German-language abstract.

Structural damage in concrete structures caused by corrosion is widespread and demand comprehensive repair work. The additional installation of an active corrosion protective systems for structures being located in unfavourable conditions is imperative. Thermally sprayed coatings serving as anode have been adapted from the cathodic protection of steel. These systems have gained attention as they offer advantages in efficiency and lower cost. Thermally sprayed zinc coatings are applied to new steel reinforced concrete structures or those which are subject to re-structuring. In this contribution, the capability of various systems is examined by field tests in a marine structure and in different laboratory tests under natural and under accelerated conditions.