Calibrating a Physics-Based Corrosion Model with Field-Based Bridge Condition Data

Abstract

This paper presents a novel method for calibrating a physics-based corrosion prediction model using a deterioration curve derived from field-based bridge condition assessments. The corrosion model used in this study considers inputs such as corrosion rate to predict outputs such as concrete crack width. Deterioration curves that present bridge element condition versus time are converted into crack width versus time using inspection guidance from transportation agencies. Input parameters of the corrosion model are calibrated by matching the crack widths predicted by the corrosion model with those predicted by the deterioration curves. The calibration method is demonstrated for a reinforced concrete bridge column in this article. The corrosion rate before cracking, the pitting factor, and the ratio of corrosion rates at critical crack width and before cracking significantly influenced the model results and were calibrated. Postcalibration input parameter ranges were narrower than but within the ranges reported in the literature. A physics-based corrosion model thus calibrated using field inspection data can potentially improve the predictions of future structural health and aid in asset management.