Utility of spatially variable damage performance indicators for improved safety and maintenance decisions of deteriorating infrastructure

Corrosion of concrete and structural steel is a primary cause of deterioration of built infrastructure. This deterioration can cause reduced load capacity and on-going and costly maintenance and repair. Typically, this corrosion can be seen on structures to be spatially variable. Few studies have considered the effect of spatial variability of corrosion on structural performance and its effect on structural reliability. Random fields may be used to consider the temporal and spatial deterioration effects on structural performance, and performance indicators may include probability of extent of damage or structural reliability. In the present article, four case studies showing the benefits of using spatially variable damage performance indicators are discussed, for structural steel and reinforced concrete structures. It will be shown how spatially variable damage performance indicators will allow for more informed decision-making about the level of safety and the selection of optimal maintenance and repair strategies.