2-Dimensional Simulation of Deterioration Process for Life-cycle Performance Assessment of RC Structures in Marine Environment

Abstract

The reliability-based durability design approach doesnt account for neither the surface deterioration of structures over service lives, nor the possible life-cycle maintenance. The paper employs the 2-dimentional (2D) simulation technique based on random field theory and Monte Carlo simulation method, to analyze the life-cycle performance of reinforced concrete structures under chloride attack, which is illustrated through the surface deterioration modelling of immersed tube tunnel segment of Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao (HZM) sea-link project. Then, the paper compares the maintenance demands imposed to different durability design specifications with different life-cycle performance target. The results may provide useful information in future durability design and aid the decision making process.