On a three-dimensional lattice approach for modelling corrosion induced cracking and its influence on bond between reinforcement and concrete

TL;DR

This paper presents a three-dimensional lattice model to simulate corrosion-induced cracking in concrete and its impact on the bond strength between reinforcement and concrete, validated against experimental pull-out tests.

Contribution

It introduces a novel lattice approach incorporating a cap-plasticity interface model and eigenstrain to simulate corrosion effects on concrete-reinforcement bonding.

Findings

Model accurately predicts corrosion-induced cracking behavior.

Results align with experimental pull-out test data.

Framework allows future exploration of confinement effects.

Abstract

The present work involves the discrete modelling of corrosion induced cracking and its influence on the bond between reinforcement and 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 of the deformed reinforcement bar and the surrounding concrete is included in a cap-plasticity interface model. The expansion of the corrosion product is represented by an eigenstrain in the lattice elements forming the interface. The lattice modelling approach is applied to the analysis of corrosion induced cracking and its influence of the bond strength. The model capabilities are assessed by comparing results of analyses with those from unconfined pull-out tests reported in the literature. Future work will investigate the influence of the stiffness of interface elements and the effect of lateral confinement on corrosion induced cracking.