Modelling of fracture process in concrete reinforced structures under steel corrosion

Purpose: Corrosion of reinforcement in concrete is one of the main causes of structural deterioration. The cracking process of concrete matrix induced by corrosion swelling of rebars is analyzed numerically and experimentally with aim to propose a methodology of corroding state monitoring based on the crack opening width. Design/methodology/approach: The direct finite element simulation of the initiation and propagation of macro-cracks in concrete caused by steel corrosion are performed for the representative volume element. A range of various inelastic constitutive equations for concrete is used in modeling. Of these the damage models in elastic media, the holonomic theory of plasticity, the associated and non-associated flow theory of plasticity with Drucker-Prager and CAP yield surfaces are considered. Findings: The results allow establishing the phases of crack initiation and propagation, the shape and trajectory of cracks. Research limitations/implications: Analysis shows that application of the linear elastic model of concrete in general underestimate the values of local stress and strain at the crack initiation location. Practical implications: Based on results of investigation the recommendations may be suggested aimed at assessment of necessary thickness of the concrete cover; apart from that, the technique of in-service monitoring the reinforcement condition may be further defined. Originality/value: The original methodology of corroding rebar state monitoring based on the surface crack opening has been proposed. The obtained results and suggested approaches can be interesting for researchers working in the areas of mechanics of materials, computational mechanics and civil engineers.