Design of reinforced concrete elements for durability against corrosion

The main objective of this research is to establish durability design models for flexural concrete elements subjected to a given aggressive environment. Because corrosion of reinforcement due to chloride ingress is the most significant threat to an existing reinforced concrete structure such as a road bridge or a harbor facility which is exposed to chloride-rich environments, corrosion due to chloride ingress is emphasized in this research. The concrete beams can get corroded to different corrosion levels. Mass loss of the reinforcement is an important parameter, and it can help define the corrosion level, and this information can be used to develop a correlation between corrosion, cracking, bond strength at the steel-concrete interface, and the ultimate strength of the reinforced concrete elements. Therefore, the prediction model of reinforcement mass loss under different levels of chloride concentration needs to be established first using the principles of corrosion electrochemistry. Secondly, design development length is determined based on the mass loss prediction and bond strength equation. Thirdly, the model for the prediction of flexural capacity of reinforced concrete beam for a given design service life is established. Some examples of practical durability design are presented. Finally, a step-by-step durability design procedure is recommended for use by practicing engineers. (Abstract shortened by UMI.