"Concrete cancer" is a colloquial term that refers to the deterioration of concrete structures, primarily caused by the corrosion of reinforcing steel (rebar) embedded within the concrete. This phenomenon typically occurs when moisture, salts, and other corrosive agents penetrate the concrete, leading to the rusting of the rebar. As the steel rusts, it expands, causing the surrounding concrete to crack and spall, which can compromise the structural integrity of the element.
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