Compression strength of corroded steel angle members

Steel structures corrode when exposed to the environment, and their capacity is reduced accordingly. In practice, when a member is found corroded during inspection, it is necessary to estimate the residual capacity of corroded members in order to decide whether to change the member, repair it or just remove corrosion and re-protect the member. The objective of this article is to provide data to engineers on the structural behavior of corroded steel angle members under compressive load. Sixteen angle members were corroded with an accelerated procedure and then tested in compression. Eight uncorroded members were also tested in compression. The influence of corrosion on compressive capacity was measured and compared to analytical methods accounting for weight loss. Recommendations are drawn from this research to provide guidance to engineers on how to evaluate compressive capacity of corroded members. Needs for future work are also highlighted.