Corrosion protection for ageing Brutalist concrete structures
22.06.2026
Figure: Cortec
As many Brutalist buildings reach an advanced age, corrosion protection is becoming an increasingly important aspect of concrete repair and preservation. Cortec highlights the use of migrating corrosion inhibitor (MCI) technology as a method of extending the service life of reinforced concrete structures while maintaining their original appearance.
According to the company, many Brutalist structures built between the 1950s and 1970s are affected by highly porous concrete and relatively shallow concrete cover, conditions that can accelerate reinforcement corrosion over time.
Corrosion mitigation during repair and maintenance
The MCI technology is designed for use on existing concrete structures during repair and maintenance. The corrosion inhibitors migrate through the concrete pore structure and form a protective molecular layer on reinforcing steel, helping delay the onset of corrosion and slow its progression.
Products such as MCI-2018 and MCI-2019 combine water repellency with surface-applied corrosion inhibitors. According to Cortec, this allows corrosion protection measures to be integrated into routine maintenance cycles. The exposed concrete surfaces typical of Brutalist architecture can also simplify product application, as no cladding or paint removal is required.
For structures where corrosion damage is already present, the company also offers repair-stage solutions intended for situations with limited surface preparation options or where repair materials need to match the original concrete as closely as possible.
Examples from existing structures
Among the projects cited by Cortec are the “Rakete” residential towers in Zagreb, Croatia, built in 1968 and considered examples of Brutalist architecture. Additional reference projects include the Memorial University in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and the New York Hall of Science, where corrosion mitigation measures were implemented as part of concrete repair works.
According to the company, the technology can help extend the service life of reinforced concrete structures without significantly altering their architectural character.
CONTACT
Cortec Europe
Gramaca 5 F 10000
10000 Zagreb/Croatia
+ 385 1 48 54 486
www.cortecvci.com
