Influence of concrete damage on reinforcement corrosion

Abstract

Concrete damage (cracks, voids and delamination) significantly influence initiation and propagation phase of reinforcement corrosion. The three methods are combined in the framework of this research: (i) on-site testing on concrete bridges, (ii) application of an advanced numerical model for service life prediction on existing structures and (iii) laboratory experiments on permeability of cracked concrete. The aim of this research is to determine the mutual interaction of material, structural, environmental and climate performance indicators under following degradation mechanisms: chloride induced corrosion of reinforcement in concrete and concrete cracking due to mechanical and non-mechanical loading. The broader aim is to predict bridge service life more precisely as a base for establishment of an optimal bridge quality control plan. The focus of the paper is application of on-site testing on existing bridges. Influence of cracks in concrete on reinforcement corrosion on existing structures can be determined by application of non-destructive testing, not only by measured values but also to define area of structure on which a crack has impact.