Identification of the properties of rust trough the behavior of damageable structures

This contribution is related to the general problem of the durability of reinforced concrete. Due to corrosion enhanced by the combined effects of chlorides and sometimes by the carbonation of concrete that renders the pH low, rebars corrode. The products of corrosion various in composition are responsible for (i) the cracking of concrete (ii) the loss of section of the bars and (iii) the modification of the interface properties. This corrosion process has been widely studied but some difficulties arise. The mechanical properties of rust are still unknown although their physical properties are well identified i.e. conductivity, density... We have decided to perform corrosion test on small plates (reinforced) submitted to electrical field (to accelerate both the corrosion and the diffusion) in order to follow the evolution of concrete cracking. Small cylinders have been used to study the kinetic of corrosion. (authors)