Recommendations for structural assessment of RC slabs using the finite element method

Paper in proceeding, 2024

To mitigate environmental impact and societal costs, there is a need to extend the lifetime of existing transportation infrastructure. Research has shown that many structures, such as bridges, have a substantial inherent load-carrying capacity that is often not fully utilized. In the research presented, it was shown how non-linear numerical analysis can be used to show higher performance and longer lifetime than with conventional engineering methods. Compre-hensive recommendations for use in engineering practice have been developed for the structural assessment of reinforced concrete slabs using the finite element method. A multi-level structural assessment strategy was developed to provide a framework for successively improved and more advanced analysis. For the more advanced levels, non-linear FE analysis is used, adopting a global safety format and incorporating the effects of deterioration. With such analyses, the structural behaviour can be more accurately described and higher, yet conservative load-carrying capacities can generally be demonstrated.