Bridges

The life-cycle performance of concrete bridges exposed to corrosion is investigated based on a set of time-variant probabilistic performance indicators including structural reliability, redundancy, robustness and resilience. The performance indicators are quantitatively evaluated based on a methodology for life-cycle nonlinear static and seismic analysis of deteriorating concrete structures under uncertainty. The methodology accounts for the diffusion process of aggressive agents, such as chlorides, and the mechanical damage coupled to diffusion, including corrosion of steel reinforcement and deterioration of concrete. The applicability of the proposed approach is shown through various examples, including the life-cycle reliability analysis and maintenance planning of a bridge pier, the redundancy and robustness evaluation of an arch bridge, and the seismic resilience assessment of a continuous box-girder bridge.