3D Numerical modelling of steel corrosion in concrete structures

The paper deals with a 3D numerical model for transient analysis of processes after depassivation of reinforcement in concrete, which are relevant for calculation of corrosion rate. The aim of the study is to investigate the influence of the concrete quality, cracking and water saturation in concrete on the current density. The results show that the corrosion rate is higher in poor quality concrete than in good quality concrete. The model predicts that cracks do not influence corrosion rate for the case where the only influence of the crack is on the rate at which oxygen can reach the steel.

► Formulation of processes in reinforced concrete relevant for corrosion of steel.
► 3D finite element formulation of the processes relevant for corrosion of steel.
► Implementation of the formulation into a 3D finite element code.
► 3D finite element study for RC beam in the splash zone.