Half-cell potential method—The half-cell potential

method is used to delineate those portions of the structure

where there is a high likelihood of corrosion activity. Before
describing the test procedure, a brief discussion of the basic
principles of corrosion testing is provided. Readers should
consult ACI 222R for additional information on the factors
affecting corrosion of steel in concrete.
3.5.2.1 Principle—Corrosion is an electrochemical process
involving the flow of charges (electrons and ions). Figure
3.5.2.1 shows a corroding steel bar embedded in concrete.
At active sites on the bar, called anodes, iron atoms lose
electrons and move into the surrounding concrete as ferrous