Numerical Simulation of Deterioration Process in Reinforced Concrete Based on COMSOL Multiphysics

Abstract

Reinforced concrete is deteriorated by chloride attack and dry-wet cycles to suffer serious durability problems. Reinforced concrete degradation typically occurs in two distinct stages: initially through chloride erosion, followed by the electrochemical corrosion of rebars. In this research, COMSOL Multiphysics was employed to model how various crack widths impact the degradation of reinforced concrete. Findings indicated that the deterioration process of reinforced concrete could be better simulated by COMSOL Multiphysics, and the degradation of reinforced concrete was significantly influenced by crack widths. As crack widths widen, chloride diffusion accelerated, leading to a rise in the corrosion current density of rebars. Notably, a crack width increased from 0.1 mm to 0.4 mm resulted in a 227.53% higher corrosion current density in rebars after 150 days of exposure. This study provides a theoretical basis for predicting reinforced concrete deterioration in the future.