Spatial variability of concrete deterioration and repair strategies

Abstract

This paper presents an improved and more realistic approach to evaluate the deterioration process and optimise the repair strategy of concrete structures. It is based on the commonly used probabilistic-based reliability analysis methods, but takes into account the spatial variability of concrete properties that has great impact on the design and maintenance decisions of structures. The developed approach is exemplified by the concrete bridge 'Wilpsedijk' in the Netherlands to show the service lifetime prediction based on spatial variability of concrete deterioration including initiation and propagation period. With respect to an established repair criterion, available repair options and the corresponding repair costs, the optimal lifetime repair strategy is determined. In comparison with most of the studies that neglect the variables with random spatial variability, the approach reflects the actual situation more realistically and can produce useful information as the proportion or percentage of the surface area that shows concrete deterioration during the whole period of time. It enables the planning of different repair and maintenance strategies for the structure from a practical point of view.