Numerical assessment of bond-slip relationships for naturally corroded plain reinforcement bars in concrete beams

Reinforced Concrete (RC) heritage structures are often affected by corrosion. Consequently, knowledge about the effect of corrosion on the bond between reinforcing bars and surrounding concrete is critical when assessing the structural performance of these structures. In earlier work, structural tests were carried out on segments of edge beams taken from a decommissioned RC bridge. The specimens had naturally corroded plain reinforcement bars and three-point bending tests were conducted, to investigate their anchorage capacity. In this study, non-linear finite element analyses (NLFEA) were carried out to gain further insight into the bond behaviour of the tested specimens, including the effect of corrosion on the bond-slip relationship. Two different, one-dimensional (1D), bond-slip relationships were calibrated for each tested bar, to account for loss of bond upon yielding. The calibration process was based on a comparison between significant numerical and experimental results, including load-deflection curve, crack pattern and asymmetrical distribution of the yield penetration along the length of the bar. Good agreement between the FE analyses and experimental tests was observed. Finally, the calibrated bond-slip relationships for nine beams with different corrosion levels, casting positions, and visual damage are presented and discussed. The loss of bond at yielding and yield penetration asymmetry are both shown to be crucial factors for adequately describing structural behaviour.

Automated summary

Corrosion has a significant impact on the bond between reinforcing bars and surrounding concrete in Reinforced Concrete (RC) heritage structures. Non-linear finite element analysis (NLFEA) and experimental tests were conducted to study the bond behavior and corrosion effects, showing good agreement between numerical and experimental results. Loss of bond at yielding and yield penetration asymmetry are crucial factors for accurately describing structural behavior.