Nonlinear finite element modeling of the impact of reinforcement corrosion on bridge piers under concentric loads

Abstract Corrosion of reinforcing steel in reinforced concrete (RC) infrastructure is one of the most detrimental deterioration mechanisms, affecting both safety and serviceability. In the present study, a comprehensive analysis methodology of corrosion damage is adopted. The detrimental effects of corrosion‐induced degradation of material properties on the ultimate capacity of an existing aging RC bridge pier under concentric loading are investigated. A three‐dimensional nonlinear finite element analysis using the commercially available finite element program DIANA is used. The main corrosion‐induced deteriorating factors considered in the present study are: concrete strength degradation within the cover and part of the confined concrete core due to corrosion‐induced cracking, degradation of confinement effects, steel area reduction due to uniform corrosion (in both longitudinal and tie reinforcement), steel ductility degradation due to pitting corrosion, buckling of compressive steel bars due to cross‐section reduction and confinement degradation, and bond strength degradation between steel and concrete induced by concrete cracking/spalling. The methodology is evaluated by comparing the numerical results to those of corroded column tests reported in the literature.