Galva Pulse Test
(Linear Polarization Resistance)

In-situ electrochemical measurement of the corrosion rate of reinforcing steel in concrete — providing real-time data on steel passivity and active corrosion activity without any damage to the structure.

Overview

What is the Galva Pulse Test?

The Galva Pulse Test (Linear Polarization Resistance — LPR) is an advanced non-destructive electrochemical method used to quantitatively measure the corrosion rate of reinforcing steel embedded in concrete. A small galvanic pulse is applied to the rebar surface and the resulting polarization resistance is measured to calculate the instantaneous corrosion rate.

This test is conducted as per ASTM C876 and provides both qualitative (half-cell) and quantitative (corrosion rate) data. At Global Lab, our site engineers use calibrated Galvapulse instruments across pan-India projects for structural assessment, rehabilitation planning and condition monitoring.

Quantitative Corrosion Rate

Measures actual corrosion current density in μA/cm² — not just probability like half-cell tests.

Non-Destructive

No drilling, coring or surface damage required. Minimal surface preparation only.

Real-Time On-Site Results

Immediate digital display of corrosion rate and passivity index at the test location.

Covers Large Areas

Grid-based scanning covers large slab/column areas efficiently with mapped output.

NABL Certified Reports

All results issued on NABL-accredited letterhead with calibration traceability.

Combined with Half-Cell

Often combined with half-cell potential for comprehensive corrosion diagnosis.

Test in Action

Galva Pulse Test — Site Images

Galva pulse test on Site

Engineer Taking test

Test in Progress

Test Procedure

How the Galva Pulse Test is Conducted

1

Surface Preparation

Concrete surface is lightly ground or wetted to ensure good electrical contact. Rebar connection point is identified and cleaned.
2

Sensor Placement

The Galvapulse sensor guard ring is placed on the concrete surface directly over the reinforcement bar.
3

Galvanic Pulse Application

A small galvanic pulse current is applied to the rebar through the sensor. The counter electrode is placed in the guard ring.
4

Polarization Resistance Measurement

The instrument measures the shift in potential during the applied pulse — calculating polarization resistance (Rp).
5

Corrosion Rate Calculation & Reporting

Corrosion current density (Icorr) is calculated from Rp using Stern-Geary constant. NABL report issued with corrosion risk classification.

Standards & Specifications

Applicable Test Standards

Standard	Title	Scope	Type
ASTM C876	Standard Test Method for Corrosion Potentials of Uncoated Reinforcing Steel in Concrete	Corrosion Potential	ASTM
RILEM TC 154-EMC	Recommendations for the Measurement of Corrosion Rates	Corrosion Rate	RILEM
BS 1881-Part 201	Testing Concrete — Guide to Use of Non-Destructive Methods	General NDT	British Standard
EN 12696	Cathodic Protection of Steel in Concrete — Measurement Methods	Electrochemical Test	European Standard

Applications

Where is the CAPO Test Used?

Bridges, flyovers and elevated road structures showing surface cracking or staining

RCC buildings with suspected chloride-induced or carbonation-induced corrosion

Pre-rehabilitation assessment to quantify repair urgency

Marine and coastal structures exposed to chloride environment

Post-repair monitoring to verify effectiveness of cathodic protection

Nuclear plants and industrial structures requiring regular structural health audit

Why Choose Global Lab

Our Advantages

NABL Accredited ReportsLegally valid certificates accepted by all government bodies, contractors and consultants.

Calibrated Galvapulse InstrumentsInstruments calibrated as per ASTM C876 with valid NABL calibration certificates.

Autovity Digital PlatformReal-time report access, sample tracking, and TAT monitoring 24/7 from any device.

Combined NDT AssessmentWe combine Galva Pulse with Half-Cell, UPV and Carbonation for full corrosion audit.

Pan-India Site CoverageField engineers deployed across Mumbai, Kolkata, Guwahati, Surat, Ahmedabad and more.

Competitive PricingTransparent pricing with no hidden charges. Volume discounts for large project contracts.

Galva Pulse Test(Linear Polarization Resistance)