Seismic Behavior of Low Strength RC Columns with Corroded Plain Reinforcing Bars

Abstract eng:
One of the major issues of construction industry is the rehabilitation of the old and deteriorating stock of structures. Corrosion of reinforcing bars and the resultant cracks of concrete members are among the most common reasons of damage that require repairing, particularly in humid environments and/or where quality of concrete is relatively low. Corrosion of reinforcement and related losses in strength and bond between concrete and reinforcing bars may increase the seismic vulnerability of existing reinforced concrete structures significantly. This paper reports the preliminary results of an experimental study on the seismic behavior of low strength reinforced concrete columns with corroded plain reinforcing bars. The specimens represent typical low strength rc columns in Turkey and many other developing countries. The specimens with plain longitudinal and transverse bars had an average concrete compressive strength less than 10 MPa, as well as insufficient amount of transverse bars in the potential plastic hinge regions. After casting, during which 4% calcium chloride was added in the mixture, the columns were subjected to accelerated corrosion process through application of electrical current. Finally, the specimens were tested under constant axial load and reversed cyclic flexure at three different levels of corrosion, as well as no corrosion case. Based on the results of the experimental study, it was understood that the corrosion of reinforcing bars effected the behavior of the low strength reinforced concrete columns significantly, particularly due to the condition of bond between concrete and steel reinforcement. It should be noted that the bond strength was already low in no corrosion case due to low quality of concrete and plain surfaces of reinforcing bars.

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