Structure-modulated CaFe-LDHs with superior simultaneous removal of deleterious anions and corrosion protection of steel rebar

The three anionic species; chloride (Cl−), sulfate (SO42−), and carbonate (CO32−), are typical chemical factors that environmentally accelerate failure of concrete structures with steel rebar through long-term exposure. Efficient removal of these deleterious anions at the early stage of penetration is crucial to enhance the lifespan and durability of concrete structures. Here, we synthesize CaFe-layered double hydroxide (CaFe-LDHs) by a simple one-step co-precipitation technique and structural modulation by calcination process. It is applied for the removal of Cl−, SO42−, and CO32− anions as well as corrosion inhibition on steel rebar in aqueous solutions. The synthesized CaFe-LDHs with phase transfer show notable improvement of removal capacity (Qmax) toward Cl− and SO42− over 3.4 times and over 5.69 times, respectably, then those of previous literatures. Furthermore, the steel rebar exposed to an aqueous solution containing the three anionic sources shows a fast corrosion rate (1876.56 × 10−3 mm per year), which can be remarkably inhibited showing 98.83% of corrosion inhibition efficiency when it is surrounded by those CaFe-LDHs. The novel adsorption mechanisms of these CaFe-LDHs-induced crystals and corresponding corrosion protection properties are elucidated drawing on synergy of memory effects and chemical reactions.