Lattice modelling of corrosion induced cracking and bond in reinforced concrete

A lattice approach is used to describe the mechanical interaction of a corroding reinforcement bar, the surrounding concrete and the interface between steel reinforcement and concrete. The cross-section of the ribbed reinforcement bar is taken to be circular, assuming that the interaction of the ribs and the surrounding concrete can be captured by a cap-plasticity interface model. The expansive corrosion process is represented by an Eigenstrain in the lattice elements forming the interface between concrete and reinforcement. Several pull-out tests with varying degree of corrosion are analysed. The numerical results are compared with experiments reported in the literature. The influence of the properties of concrete are studied. The proposed lattice approach offers insight into corrosion induced cracking and its influence on bond strength.