The deterioration asymmetry of engineering structures

Abstract

Engineering structures are known to withstand significant applied loads, in order to respect static requirements. With time, the environmental sustainability became an important aspect for construction systems. Therefore, the durability issues acquired an increased attention. Materials and systems are subjected to atmospheric degradation. Geographic location, orientation, degree of exposition, construction details, height and degrading agents such as, sun irradiation, wind, rainfall, and chemical agents influence the intensity of the deterioration. This latter mainly takes place in an asymmetric manner. Within short distance, the damage of a structure may significantly vary. The present work outline the asymmetry in the degradation of some main infrastructure such as buildings, tunnels, waste water plants, drinking water reservoirs, bridges, drinking water wells and artifacts exposed to stray currents. The asymmetry largely affects the deterioration process. In some cases, a relevant damage was observed after short time. Thus, a wise planning of infrastructure and materials may increase their general durability.