Estimation of the properties of corroded steel plates exposed to salt-spray atmosphere

This research is aimed to investigate the evolution characteristics of corroded surface morphologies, mechanical properties degradation caused by corrosion and further estimate residual behaviours of corroded steel in various corrosion degrees. The artificially accelerated corrosion experiment was utilised to prepare tested steel plates in 10 different corrosion degrees through the variation of exposed time. As the development of corrosion process, various morphologies can be observed and many parameters can be obtained to describe the evolution characteristics quantitatively. Compared with corrosion-free plates, rusted specimens with exposed time of 178 days showed obvious degradation in strength and deformation. Various representative variables and empirical models were adopted to evaluate residual properties of corroded steel members comprehensively and verify their applicability in turn. Furthermore, a numerical model based on actual rusted surface was also established for estimation. This research can provide integrated approach to estimate residual behaviours of corroded carbon-steel structures.