Optimum Strengthening Strategy for Deteriorating Reinforced Concrete Bridges

Corrosion of reinforcing steel in concrete is the one of the most predominant causes of deterioration in reinforced concrete (RC) bridges. This paper presents an optimal strengthening strategy for corrosion-affected RC bridges. By combining concepts of strengthening and maintenance optimization, an innovative strengthening strategy for structures strengthened by different methods such as FRP composites can be developed. Formulation of the proposed strategy is based on cost optimization. In this strategy, the optimum strengthening time and quantity of the strengthening material can be determined. Application of the proposed methodology is presented in a worked example for a corrosion-affected RC bridge girder strengthened with Fibre Reinforced Polymers (FRP) sheets. The paper concludes that the developed strategy can be a useful tool, which can assist asset managers in developing rehabilitation plan for deteriorated RC bridges under their management.