ECN Forum Forums Code Related Discussion NEC & other Code issues Ground Rod

I'm with Bob on this one. Galvanized steel is ferrous, so the first sentence of the applicable code applies. A galvanized steel rod (ferrous) isn't equivalent to a non-ferrous rod.

Dave

As far as I'm concerned, Galvan is hyping a non-issue. As I read the code, ANY 5/8 piece of steel or iron may be used as an electrode- even pipe or structural iron.

I think you'll find that stainless steel is not as conductive as "regular" steel.
I have had concrete workers claim that rebar isn't galvanised because the zinc damages the concrete as it decomposes; I have seen zinc deteriorate quickly in concrete and alkali soils.

I've always wondered why we just don't use #5 re-bar for our ground rods- and save the $$$. (After all, re-bar is the basis of the Ufer grid).

An interesting product is Conducrete, which is electrically conductive concrete. It can be used around ground rods/rings to increase their conductivity plus it claims to limit corrosion. It is made by SAE Inc. This is pricey stuff (~$50/55 pound bag) but may be an answer for a tough location or a customer with severe conditions. I'd like to see some independent testing lab make some measurements of this product.