Response of reinforced concrete structures to macrocell corrosion of reinforcements. Part II: After propagation of microcracks via a numerical approach

Investigation of response of reinforced concrete (RC) structures due to axisymmetric macrocell corrosion of rebars is of concern after propagation of microcracks within the concrete medium. The geometry, boundary and interfaces conditions of the present problem are identical to those stated in part I. As seen in the companion paper, the exact solution to the boundary value problem corresponding to the uncracked steel–rust–concrete composite was possible. After appearance of the microcracks the concrete behavior becomes nonlinear anisotropic with post-cracking softening, and the associated problem is analytically intractable. Therefore, it is proposed to employ a novel meshless method, namely gradient reproducing kernel particle (GRKPM), in the cylindrical coordinates. The analytical and numerical solutions pertinent to the uncracked concrete are in good agreement. Subsequently, the effects of the parameters associated with the mechanical behavior of concrete and properties of rust on the time of surface cracking, the maximum values of consumed rebar per unit area of anode and crack width openings at the time of surface cracking, and the maximum value of radial stress at the rust–concrete interface are scrutinized in some detail.

► RC structures damage due to axisymmetric macrocell corrosion of rebars is studied.
► The problem is explored after propagation of microcracks within the concrete medium.
► Hamilton's principle and a novel meshless method are employed to solve the problem.
► The results of numerical approach are compared with those of the analytical method.
► The effects of crucial factors on some measures of deterioration are also examined.