Essential parameters for strength-based service life modeling of reinforced concrete structures : a review

Abstract

While there are a number of carbonation-induced service life models and extensive data that has been presented in the literature, most do not capture all the necessary parameters to allow their universal application to reinforced concrete structures. Results in the literature generally show an existence of a strong fundamental relationship between carbonation and compressive strength of concrete, but hardly any model has been successful in developing a universal functional relationship for service life prediction. It is often the case that models developed on the basis of a particular data set fail to apply when treated to another data from other authors. These issues indicate the underlying complexity of attempting to determine and emerge the empirical or mathematical functions capable of adequately capturing the key influential parameters affecting observed performance. In a critical review of literature, a variety of parameters in the strength-based models are compiled for a range of potentially plausible models and then examined. Specific interest has been given to models that account or have the potential to account for complex cementitious systems, various types of climates or field exposure conditions. It is found that there is potential to introduce robustness into few selected models that seem, from the literature examination, to closely relate to service life situations and/or needs in Sub-Saharan Africa, among other regions. © 2012 Taylor & Francis Group.