Is it true that ICCP is used for poorly coated structures?

Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) is indeed employed for structures that are inadequately coated or where the quality of the coating is compromised. The primary purpose of ICCP systems is to mitigate corrosion by providing a continuous flow of protective current to the metal surface. This becomes particularly crucial for poorly coated structures, as these surfaces can be more susceptible to corrosion due to exposure to moisture and electrolytes in the environment.

In cases where coatings fail or are not applied correctly, the metal beneath may become exposed to corrosive elements. ICCP helps to counteract this by supplying electrons directly to the surface, effectively changing the electrochemical potential of the metal and preventing it from corroding. This can be more effective in areas with significant corrosion risks, such as those exposed to saltwater or industrial pollutants, thereby demonstrating the importance of ICCP in protecting structures with subpar protective coatings.

In contrast, other methods of cathodic protection, such as galvanic anodes, may not provide sufficient protection in scenarios where a continuous current is necessary to compensate for the poor condition of the protective coating. Therefore, recognizing the specific applications and advantages of ICCP, especially under challenging conditions, underscores its critical role in corrosion prevention for poorly coated structures.