The steel–concrete interface

Journal article (2017)

Authors

Ueli M. Angst ETH Zürich
Mette R. Geiker Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
R.B. Polder TNO, Materials and Environment - CEG
Maria Cruz Alonso Institute of Construction Science Eduardo Torroja-CSIC
Mercedes Sanchez Institute of Construction Science Eduardo Torroja-CSIC
Maria João Correia National Laboratory of Civil Engineering (LNEC)
Maria Criado University of Sheffield
A. Sagüés University of South Florida Tampa
Nick Buenfeld Imperial College London
Alexander Michel Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Christoph Gehlen Technische Universität München
Hong Wong Imperial College London
O. Burkan Isgor Oregon State University
Bernhard Elsener ETH Zürich
Carolyn M. Hansson University of Waterloo
Raoul François Université de Toulouse
Karla Hornbostel Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
Research Group
Materials and Environment (CEG) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2017 Ueli M. Angst, Mette R. Geiker, Alexander Michel, Christoph Gehlen, Hong Wong, O. Burkan Isgor, Bernhard Elsener, Carolyn M. Hansson, Raoul François, Karla Hornbostel, R.B. Polder, Maria Cruz Alonso, Mercedes Sanchez, Maria João Correia, Maria Criado, A. Sagüés, Nick Buenfeld
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1617/s11527-017-1010-1
More Info
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Published Date

01-04-2017

Language

English

Faculty

Civil Engineering & Geosciences

Department

Materials- Mechanics- Management & Design

Research Group

Materials and Environment

Abstract

Although the steel–concrete interface (SCI) is widely recognized to influence the durability of reinforced concrete, a systematic overview and detailed documentation of the various aspects of the SCI are lacking. In this paper, we compiled a comprehensive list of possible local characteristics at the SCI and reviewed available information regarding their properties as well as their occurrence in engineering structures and in the laboratory. Given the complexity of the SCI, we suggested a systematic approach to describe it in terms of local characteristics and their physical and chemical properties. It was found that the SCI exhibits significant spatial inhomogeneity along and around as well as perpendicular to the reinforcing steel. The SCI can differ strongly between different engineering structures and also between different members within a structure; particular differences are expected between structures built before and after the 1970/1980s. A single SCI representing all on-site conditions does not exist. Additionally, SCIs in common laboratory-made specimens exhibit significant differences compared to engineering structures. Thus, results from laboratory studies and from practical experience should be applied to engineering structures with caution. Finally, recommendations for further research are made.