Multi-scale and multi-physics deterioration modelling for design and assessment of reinforced concrete structures

Abstract

This paper discusses the need for reliable and valid multi-scale and multi-physics prediction models to support the design of new as well as the assessment, maintenance, and repair of existing reinforced concrete structures. A multi-physics and multi-scale deterioration model for chloride-induced corrosion of reinforced concrete has been established. Ongoing work includes extension of the model to 3D as well as modelling of the impact of the steel-concrete interface characteristics and electrochemical potential on chloride thresholds. Identified challenges include, among others, the improved understanding and modelling of single-and multi-deterioration mechanisms, environmental exposure, and data for validation. We envision that next generation maintenance and management of reinforced concrete infrastructure will combine numerical simulations based on multi-scale and multi-physics principles and extensive in-situ monitoring, allowing continuous Bayesian updating of 4D simulations of functional performance.

5 years of in situ reinforcement corrosion monitoring in the splash and submerged zone of a cracked concrete element

“…Motivation for initiating such a campaign was rooted in the fact that experimental data from in situ specimens are needed in order to test, calibrate, and validate recently developed advanced modelling tools for reinforced concrete deterioration, see e.g. [2][3][4][5][6]. However, it is acknowledged that neither destructive measurements, including e.g.…”

“…mass transport, electrochemistry, and fracture mechanics, see e.g. [2][3][4][5][6]. While these models help to shed light on some of the governing mechanism for concrete durability, these tools require a large number of input parameters as well as extensive experimental data for model testing and validation.…”

Durability-based design: the European perspective

“…The generic character of the multi-scale mechanism-based models is important, especially considering the continuing development in cement compositions and the variation in exposure, including climate changes. Such generic models will greatly increase the likelihood of new sustainable solutions, both for the design of new structures and the assessment, maintenance and repair of existing structures (Geiker et al, 2017(Geiker et al, , 2019.…”

Effectiveness of multi-physics numerical model in simulating accelerated corrosion with spatial and temporal non-uniformity

“…These idealizations stem from the challenges involved in incorporating coupled interactions between structure and its local environment on a space-time frame in a 3D domain. Researchers [30] envisioned that the next generation strategies to maintain RC structures will combine multi-physics numerical simulation having multi-scale capabilities with in situ monitoring, allowing continuous updating of what is called as 4D simulation of structural performance. This forms the basis of present research work.…”