A novel model for corrosion-induced cracking and spalling in reinforced concrete structures: II-FE models of beams: an analysis of bond-slip degradation, corroded steel, spalling of the concrete cover, and stirrup confinement

In the present work, macro-mechanical modelling of reinforced concrete structures under corrosion is performed. A traction based damage model is adopted. A discrete crack approach is used to model the fracture behaviour of concrete. The bond-slip relation between reinforcement steel and concrete is continuously evolving under corrosion, as a function of corrosion level and stress state. This is a non trivial issue, which is dealt with taking into account a total approach. Other corrosion aspects considered in this work are the reduction of the sane cross section of the reinforcement steel as well as spalling of the concrete cover. Bending tests are performed to evaluate the influence of corrosion at structural level, namely the increase of deformation as well as the decrease of the strength of the structure, leading to premature failure. Furthermore, stirrup confinement, in association with spalling, and slippage of the anchorage zone are analyzed.