Laboratory investigations were performed in order to compare the electrochemical behaviour of amino alcohol-based inhibitors currently used to prevent (preventive inhibitors) and to control (curative inhibitor) corrosion of steel in concrete, respectively. The investigation was performed in the presence of chloride ions, using extract solutions simulating the concrete interstitial electrolyte. Electrochemical measurements allowed to compare the protective efficiency of these inhibitors. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.