Predicting the Width of Corrosion-Induced Cracks in Reinforced Concrete Using a Damage Model Based on Fracture Mechanics

Using a finite-element scheme based on a damage model, a numerical system is developed to predict cracks in reinforced concrete beams due to corrosion expansion. The numerical results show that the width of such cracks is affected considerably by (i) the shape of the reinforcing bar, (ii) the presence of stirrups, and (iii) the number of main reinforcement bars. Specimens of reinforced concrete beams are fabricated to simulate those used in the...