Mechanical diagnosis of reinforced concrete structures damaged by steel corrosion

Title: Mechanical diagnosis of reinforced concrete structures damaged by steel corrosion
Author(s): A. Castel, T. Vidal, R. François
Paper category : conference
Book title: 2nd International RILEM Workshop on Life Prediction and Aging Management of Concrete Structures
Editor(s): D.J. Naus
Print-ISBN: 2-912143-36-5
e-ISBN: 2912143780
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2003
Pages: 157 - 164
Total Pages: 8
Nb references: 10
Language: English

Abstract: In this paper, a methodology of non-destructive diagnosis of corroded reinforced concrete structures is proposed. The aim is the re-evaluation of the mechanical behaviour in service and the load bearing capacity of the structure.
Initially, the corrosion state of the reinforcements is deduced from a simple visual observation of concrete cover cracking due to corrosion thanks to an empirical model connecting the degree of corrosion to the crack width. The distribution of the corrosion all along the structure is then inserted in a mechanical model of corroded reinforced concrete behaviour which takes into account the effects of corrosion, i.e. : the local loss of steel cross section and steel-concrete bond damage which lead to a local reduction of the inertia of the structural members. The model then allows to calculate the distribution of the local inertia along the structural elements. The re-evaluation of the mechanical behaviour in service thus results from a Finite Elements calculation by assembling sections of variable inertia. The standardised extern loads of the reinforced concrete structure are used to calculate the maximum internal loads (normal stresses) of the structural elements and the displacements of the structure. Then, from these maximum internal loads, a verification of all the corroded cross sections can be carried out and the residual load bearing capacity can be evaluated. This method allows to assess the state of the structure with regard to its mechanical serviceability and safety and thus help to the management of structural ageing.

Online publication: 2003-04-02
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros): 0.00
doi: 10.1617/2912143780.015