CFRP strip composite column

Dual-function ICCP anode

CFRP strips serve as both stirrups and ICCP anodes in a novel composite column, providing confinement and complete corrosion prevention of longitudinal steel bars without compromising seismic performance.

Hu, Biao · Ruibo, Liu · Jing, He · Kun, Wang · Zhou, Yingwu · Tahir, Muhammad Fiaz · Huang, Xiaoxu

Journal of Composites for Construction 2026

Specifications

Corrosion increase

{'zh': '67.3', 'en': '67.3'} %

Lateral loading capacity increase

{'zh': '9.3', 'en': '9.3'} %

Ductility increase

{'zh': '23.1', 'en': '23.1'} %

Energy dissipation capacity increase

{'zh': '98.6', 'en': '98.6'} %

Advantages

Complete corrosion prevention

With optimized ICCP parameters, the longitudinal steel bars show no further corrosion after 180 days of wet–dry cycling, whereas corrosion increases by 67.3% in the column without ICCP.

Enhanced seismic performance

Compared with the column without ICCP, the lateral loading capacity, ductility, and energy dissipation capacity increased by up to 9.3%, 23.1%, and 98.6%, respectively.

Stable electrochemical behavior

The ICCP system exhibits stable electrochemical behavior throughout the tests, ensuring reliable long-term protection.

Applications

• Corrosion protection of RC structures：Provides active cathodic protection for RC structures, preventing chloride-induced steel corrosion.
• Repair and strengthening of existing structures：Used for strengthening existing structures, inhibiting corrosion without reducing seismic performance.
• CFRP-strengthened concrete：Uses CFRP strips as both stirrups and ICCP anodes, integrating confinement and protection.
• Bridge durability：Enhances durability of bridge columns in harsh environments, extending service life.