Effects of non-uniform corrosion on the cracking and service life of reinforced concrete structures

The purpose of this study is to explore the effects of non-uniform corrosion on cracking behavior of concrete cover. The effects of non-uniform corrosion distribution, cover-to-rebar diameter ratio, and concrete compressive strength on the cracking pressure of concrete cover were studied. The present study indicates that the pressures to cause cracking of concrete cover under non-uniform corrosion conditions are much smaller than those under uniform corrosion case. The cracking pressure decreases up to about 60% depending upon the types of non-uniform corrosion distributions. It was also shown that cover-to-rebar diameter ratio and concrete compressive strength affect greatly the cracking pressure of concrete cover. Realistic equations on the cracking pressure of concrete cover were derived. The comparisons of analysis results with the test data on the cracking pressure of concrete cover show fairly good agreement. Finally, the effect of non-uniform corrosion on the service life of concrete structures was discussed.