A new model for the analysis of the structural/mechanical performance of concrete structures affected by DEF - Case study of an existing viaduct

Concrete construction is becoming increasingly complex and the importance of producing structures that are both cost effective and durable in the long term has never been higher. Therefore, an understanding of concrete durability is considered fundamental to determine the service life of new or existing structures. However, at present a significant number of existing concrete structures and bridges have already been deteriorated by a chemo-mechanical process known as Delayed Ettringite Formation (DEF). This phenomenon causes expansion of the affected concrete, generally leading to cracking and a decrease of its mechanical properties. The disease or deterioration mechanism therefore induces serious problems regarding serviceability, sustainable operation and structural integrity, which makes it necessary to apply predictive models able to re-assess the mechanical state of the affected structures. In this way, chemo-mechanical modelling must be performed considering the influence of humidity, stiffness reduction and stress in the development of expansion.
The elaborated 3D model was applied to an existing viaduct affected by DEF. The displacements and stresses were computed based on the experimental data obtained from the in-situ measurements. The computed results highlight the relationship between the saturation degree and the expansion. Finally, comparisons between different calculations with and without considering the anisotropy of expansion and stiffness reduction are presented and discussed.