FINITE ELEMENT MODELING OF CORROSION DAMAGE IN CONCRETE

In this paper, numerical modeling options to predict the mechanical damage in concrete structures resulting from the volume expansion of the corrosion products are discussed. The smeared crack approach is used to develop a versatile numerical model for corrosion damage in concrete. The features of the model are enumerated. The numerical model provides a tool that may be used to develop a better understanding of the mechanisms of damage propagation due to corrosion of the reinforcement, delamination, and spalling of concrete structures. If corrosion rates are known, the model supplies information for condition assessment of existing concrete structures.