Effects of corrosion on reinforced concrete bridge piers in seismic zone

This research deals with the effect of corrosion on reinforced concrete structures. In particular, it focuses on the consequences of bond strength deterioration. In a previous study (De Gaetano, 2019) the seismic capacity of a bridge pier subjected to corrosion was evaluated in time domain, considering the steel reinforcement cross-section reduction effect only. The aim of the present study is to deepen the previous investigation considering also the problem of loss of adherence between steel and concrete. Indeed, the analyzed structure is the same, so that a coherent comparison of the former results is possible. Furthermore, it is possible to assess to what extent the loss of bond can affect the bridge's strength and ductility. In the first part of the thesis a literature review of the main research results carried out on the topic and of the developed empirical models is presented. Then, one model has been chosen to be applied to the bridge case study, obtaining as result the effect of corrosion during the whole service life of the structure (100 years). The modification of strength capacity and ductility of the structural element are analyzed. In the last part of the thesis, a review of the most employed protective methods against corrosion is presented, for new and existing constructions. Moreover, a summary of corrosion monitoring techniques is reported, focusing on non-destructive methods.