Use of stainless steel rebar for concrete reinforcement is increasing worldwide. The enhanced properties of stainless steel prove to be a viable solution when life cycle costs of the structures are taken into account. Austenitic and duplex stainless steels are used as rebar because they present an excellent combination of corrosion resistance in concrete, high strength and good ductility.
The resistance to pitting corrosion of various stainless steels has been evaluated by electrochemical tests. Thus, it is possible to select the appropriate grade according to the environment the concrete structure is submitted to during its life. A classification of the selected austenitic and duplex grades is introduced.