Numerical model for concrete crack width caused by reinforcement corrosion and applied load

Corrosion-induced deterioration of reinforced concrete (RC) structures results in premature failure of the RC structures. In practice concrete crack width is one of the most important criteria for the assessment of the serviceability of RC structures. It is therefore desirable to predict the growth of the crack width over time so that betterinformed decisions can be made concerning the repairs due to concrete cracking. A literature review shows that little research has been undertaken on numerical prediction of concrete crack width. The intention of the study, presented in this paper, was to develop a numerical method to predict corrosion-induced concrete crack width for corrosion-affected concrete structures. A cohesive crack model for concrete is employed to simulate the crack initiation and propagation in concrete. Accurate concrete fracture properties obtained from tests are used in the modelling. It can be concluded that the numerical method developed in the paper can predict corrosion-induced concrete cracking and crack width with reasonable accuracy.