Copper and Concrete 2

[LPPE]

Is copper compatible with concrete? I've got some architectural "artwork" that has copper pipe supports that were originally embedded in concrete.

 

[blake989]

I know you are safe from galvanic corrosion, referencing Architectural Drafting Standards published by Wiley. I have seen contractors wrap copper pipe to be cast in a concrete slab with plastic sleeves. Why? I don't know.

 

[SlideRuleEra]

No problem with copper and concrete. Go to the link below, PCA page, I have posted an out-of-print article "Nonferrous Metals In Contact With Concrete".

http://www.SlideRuleEra.net

 

[casseopeia]

PVC sleeves are used to make replacement of the copper pipe possible without removing the concrete and to protect against any inadvertent contact with steel rebar.

I also believe that Type L or K copper pipe is recommended for use in concrete for the extra thickness and rigidity.

 

[MotorCity]

From an aestetics standpoint, as the copper corrodes and turns that familiar green color, it will stain the concrete.

 

[LPPE]

Thanks all for the info.

Some background info on the question - I've got to take this copper "artwork" off an existing concrete framed building and attach it to another building across town. The artwork uses copper pipes embedded in the concrete building, and I was wondering what to expect when I try to get this stuff off the existing building (intact, too, hopefully...)

 

[eric1037]

This is anecdotal information, but I have seen copper tubing corrode that was in contact with concrete.

This was copper tubing for gas transmission into a home.

 

[flamby]

It is very common to seal the expansion joints of dam using copper seals (embedding copper plate between adjacent blocks). No issue there.

Ciao.