Multiphysics Phase-Field Modeling of Corrosion-Induced Degradation in Unsaturated Reinforced Concrete Structure
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Corrosion-induced cracking poses a significant threat to the longevity of reinforced concrete (RC) structures, yet precisely forecasting its advancement continues to be a considerable scientific obstacle. The principal shortcoming of current numerical models is their excessive simplification, frequently presuming totally saturated conditions and disregarding the dynamic interplay between environmental (hygro-thermal) variations and developing mesoscale damage. This study presents a thorough hygro-thermo-electro-chemo-mechanical (HTECM) phase-field model to fill this research need. The model uniquely combines dynamic unsaturated hygro-thermal transport with multi-ion reactive electrochemistry and meso-scale fracture mechanics. A rigorous comparison with published experimental data validates the model's exceptional accuracy. The anticipated progression of fracture width exhibited remarkable concordance with experimental data, indicating a substantial enhancement in precision compared to uncoupled, saturated-state models. A key finding is the quantification of the damage-induced "transport-corrosion" positive feedback loop: initial corrosion-induced microcracks significantly expedite the transport of local moisture and corrosive agents, leading to nonlinear structural degradation. This work presents a high-fidelity numerical platform that enhances the understanding of linked deterioration in materials science and improves the durability design of reinforced concrete structures.
Source: Materials
DOI: 10.3390/ma18225091
Authors: Aihua Lu, Yongxing Zhang
Institution: Nanjing Forestry University
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
OpenAlex ID: W4416089183