Life-Cycle Cost Analysis for Reinforced Concrete Bridge Decks

Abstract

Abstract The article presents an example of a life-cycle cost analysis for reinforced concrete bridge decks based on the selected deterioration model. The calculations consider different construction/repair/rehabilitation options and several maintenance scenarios and yield annual cash outflows over the period of the deck’s service life for both direct and indirect (user costs). The analysis shows that indirect costs can exceed the direct costs by a factor 10 or more. Another significant conclusion is that at prevailing interest rates more corrosion resistant rebar designs are favored over the conventional ones, as the former minimizes corrosion-related deterioration and reduces the maintenance and repair expense. The complete version of the analysis, including an example of calculating the life-cycle costs, can be found in the ‘Highway Bridges’ sector of the report on the “Corrosion Costs and Preventive Strategies in the United States,” available at www.corrosioncost.com.