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

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.