Beams affected by corrosion influence of reinforcement placement in the cracking

The results of experimental and numerical investigations on reinforced concrete beams, with different longitudinal rebars affected by corrosive processes are presented in this paper. Different diameters and/or different distributions of longitudinal rebars were employed keeping constant the total section in each analyzed case, (maintaining a constant stirrup diameter and distribution). The rebars were subjected to accelerated corrosion in the experimental study. Electrochemical monitoring of the process, periodic measuring of the cover cracking and gravimetry of the rebars were performed through the test. Some building recommendations are obtained in order to be considered by designers of concrete structures. The numerical simulation was carried out through the application of the Finite Element Method (FEM), employing plane models, and using linear-elastic material model. The cracking process was associated with the evolution of the tensile stresses that were originated. This numerical methodology allows the monitoring of the mechanical behavior until the beginning of the cracking.