Durability models for GRC: uncertainties on strength predictions

Even though several models exist in the literature to predict the strength durability of glass fibre (textile) reinforced concrete (GRC), a considerable gap still exists between theory and practice. No real guidelines are available for testing, model calibration and model selection. This work analyses all the uncertainties in the GRC strength durability determination process. The paper addresses the determination of the best approximating model by applying a statistical model selection method (Akaike's information criterion) on an extensive series of accelerated aging tests; a theoretical approach is presented which enables the user to check the reliability of the model selection. A method is presented for the determination of the uncertainty in the strength prediction, taking into account both the statistical distribution present on the (tensile) strength of the GRC material as well as the effect of model calibration based on a limited set of accelerated aging tests.