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Abstract
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Different methodologies have been suggested in the literature to simulate the adverse impact of reinforcement
corrosion on the non-linear structural behaviour of deteriorated reinforced concrete (RC) structures. The modelling
methodology used, however, can significantly bias the predicted time-dependent structural behaviour of deteriorated
structures. Considering the critical importance of numerical modelling in bridge maintenance scheduling and effective
decision making, the influence of different modelling strategies on the anticipated time-variant structural performance
of corroded concrete bridge columns is investigated. To this end, various simple and advanced modelling
methodologies are evaluated. The effect of the considered modelling scenarios on the estimation of damage limit
states, the sequence of multiple failure modes, structural capacity (both ductility and strength) and energy dissipation
capacity of a benchmark circular RC column is evaluated over its service life. The results show that the modelling
strategy significantly affects the predicted time-variant structural performance of the deteriorated structure.
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