Rational Evaluation of Shear Capacity in Aging Concrete Structures

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This international collaboration aims to apply mechanics-based theories developed at RWTH Aachen University (Germany) to evaluated corroded reinforced concrete (RC) structures being studied at uOttawa (Canada). Until recently, shear design of RC structures was based on empirical data due to lack of understanding of the underlying mechanics. Extensive use of deicing salts in Canada has also resulted in widespread corrosion-induced damage, with 40% of our infrastructure classified as being in very poor, poor, or fair condition Consequently, Canada has become a global leader in understanding and mitigating corrosion, evaluating its implications, and developing practical solutions for structural rehabilitation and strengthening. On the other hand, while corrosion damage greatly increases the degree of uncertainty in shear behaviour, existing Canadian methods lack the fundamental mechanical basis to address this important research challenge. The SCPT recently developed at the Institute of Structural Concrete at RWTH Aachen University is unique in its ability to predict shear crack propagation at all stages of loading and quantify the contribution of each of the various mechanisms resisting the applied shear force. Through this collaboration, we will incorporate the effects of corrosion damage within the SCPT formulation to significantly improve the accuracy and safety of bridge evaluations in Canada and globally. By applying a rational and consistent method to predict the capacity of bridges instead of empiricism, owners will be able to implement appropriate, timely, and cost-effective maintenance and rehabilitation measures.