Analysis of Reinforced Concrete‐Pipe Performance Data

Abstract

Concrete pipes may be subject to deterioration from various conditions, including freeze‐thaw weathering, acid corrosion, sulfate disruption, velocity abrasion of the concrete, and chloride corrosion of the reinforcing steel. The service life of reinforced concrete pipe thus varies significantly. Also, there are few detailed studies on concrete‐pipe durability. Furthermore, analyses of the same data by different researchers have produced equations predicting dramatically different service lives. The results of two researchers' analyses in the form of service‐life equations, based on the most complete data set available, are presented and analyzed. While neither of their service‐life equations can be judged a good model of concrete‐pipe deterioration, one is shown to better model actual field performance. This analysis also suggests the direction for future data‐collection efforts. Future efforts should be aimed at improved prediction of field performance and reinforced‐concrete‐pipe service life through a more detailed description of water chemistry and the inclusion of more older, deteriorated pipes.