Numerical determination of concrete crack width for corrosion-affected concrete structures

•A numerical method for determining the total crack width of reinforced concrete caused by corrosion has been developed.•The crack width is simulated over time and dependent on a number of geometric, material and mechanical parameters.•The numerical method is verified by comparing against analytical and experimental results.•The effects of some numerical parameters on the crack width development have been investigated. Corrosion-induced deterioration of reinforced concrete (RC) structures results in premature failure of the RC structures. In practice concrete crack width is one of the most important criteria for the assessment of the serviceability of RC structures. It is therefore desirable to predict the growth of the crack width over time so that better informed decisions can be made concerning the repairs due to concrete cracking. Literature review shows that little research has been undertaken on numerical prediction of concrete crack width. The intention of this study was to develop a numerical method to predict concrete crack width for corrosion-affected concrete structures. A cohesive crack model for concrete is implemented in the numerical formulation to simulate crack initiation and propagation in concrete. Choices for evaluating the parameters of cohesive elements are extensively discussed which is a key for developing a plausible model employing cohesive elements. The surface crack width is obtained as a function of service time. Accurate prediction of crack width can allow timely maintenance which prolongs the service life of the reinforced concrete structures.