Probabilistic methods for assessing current and future performance of concrete structures in nuclear power plants

Concrete safety-related structures and components in nuclear plants may be exposed to aggressive service and environmental effects that may cause their strength and stiffness to deteriorate over an extended period of service. A performance assessment of an existing structure subject to deterioration requires a consideration of likely degradation mechanisms, a framework for managing the inevitable uncertainties in operating or environmental loads, capacities, and nondestructive evaluation technologies, and tools for determining whether the observed degradation impacts the remaining service life or safety margin of the plant to any significant degree. Research is in progress to support the development of condition assessment tools and guidelines using modern structural reliability analysis methods.