Advanced Life-Cycle Analysis of Existing Concrete Bridges

Abstract

A complex interdisciplinary approach to the reliability assessment of reinforced concrete structures is introduced and demonstrated on a real existing bridge structure. The reliability index of the structure decreases during its life cycle due to material degradation. A retrofitting to the desired reliability level should be performed. This procedure is modeled by advanced life-cycle computer simulation. The main feature of the presented approach is the nonlinear finite-element analysis of the structure employed for the realistic assessment of structural behavior. A suitable technique of statistical sampling, which allows a relatively small number of simulations, is used in this context. Analytical deterioration models combined with in situ monitoring are used to launch the degradation process. The presented methodology for advanced life-cycle analysis is integrated in the innovative decision-making tool that supports maintenance planning of engineering structures.