Life-Cycle Modeling of Corrosion-Affected Concrete Structures: Propagation

Abstract

Although research in reinforcement corrosion in concrete has been intensive for the past three decades, studies of the most recently published literature reveal that the current state of research in corrosion propagation and its effects on structural resistance deterioration remains unsatisfactory. The intention of this paper is to develop models of structural resistance deterioration used in whole life performance assessment of corrosion-affected concrete structures. An assessment criterion is established to define the structural performance in terms of strength and serviceability limit states. A comparison of the experimental results on strength deterioration as determined from destructive load test and nondestructive measurement of corrosion current density is undertaken. From the developed models, life cycles of corrosion-affected concrete structures are determined in the paper. Together with previous results, a complete picture of whole life performance assessment of corrosion-affected reinforced concrete structures is depicted. The methodology presented in the paper can be used as a tool for structural engineers and asset managers in assessing concrete infrastructure and making decisions with regard to its maintenance and rehabilitation.