Reliability-Based Inspection Planning for RC Highway Bridges

摘要

A methodology has been developed to predict the deterioration and associated limit state reliability of in-service reinforced concrete (RC) elements. The methodology is primarily concerned with the chloride induced corrosion of RC highway bridges. The models developed are outlined, and their implementation is illustrated through a case study. The aim of the paper is to show that a relatively simple probabilistic approach, conceived bearing in mind realistic site data collection techniques, can produce useful and credible predictions of the effects of deterioration on bridge performance. These may be used by bridge owners and maintaining agents to plan inspection, repair and maintenance strategies on a bridge-specific basis.