Modelling the effects of steel corrosion in concrete, induced by carbon dioxide penetration

The aim of this article is to present the modelling approach developed in order to predict the effects of corrosion of the reinforcements induced by carbon dioxide penetration. The final objective of the project is to propose a phenomenological and coupled model taking into account all the processes involved in the degradation of reinforced concrete. In this context, the CORDOBA model considers the coupling between different processes involved in the cracking induced corrosion phenomenon. More precisely, hydric behaviour of concrete is coupled with oxygen transport and corrosion reaction, as well as with mechanical damage of concrete. The effect of a pre-existing crack on the development of corrosion is also analysed.