No. 119. Sensitivity analysis of the probabilistic service life models for carbonation and chloride initiated corrosion given in the fib Model Codes for Concrete Structures - Technical report (144 pages, ISBN 978-2-88394-200-4, November 2025).
Title: Sensitivity analysis of the probabilistic service life models for carbonation and chloride initiated corrosion given in the fib Model Codes for Concrete Structures
Technical report
Year: 2025
Pages: 144
Format approx. DIN A4 (210x297 mm)
ISBN: 978-2-88394-200-4
DOI: doi.org/10.35789/fib.BULL.0119
Abstract:
Until recently, durability design for reinforced concrete structures relied largely on a deemed-to-satisfy approach. This method is based on prescriptive specifications—particularly prescriptive rules for concrete composition—that practitioners are required to follow. However, experience has shown that deemed-to-satisfy provisions do not always guarantee durable concrete structures.
In response, durability design methods based on performance modelling are seeing increasing use. These procedures employ mathematical models together with measured material properties to predict how a structure will resist specific deterioration mechanisms, helping to ensure reliable long-term performance. Early examples include the fib Model Code for Service Life Design and, later, the fib Model Code for Concrete Structures 2010. Nevertheless, because the practical application of these models has not been described in detail, designers have interpreted them inconsistently. As a result, predictions for structural service life can vary widely, even when the same underlying models are used.
fib bulletin 119 was developed to address this issue. Its purpose is to clarify how the service life design philosophy can be applied in practice, enabling the models presented in MC2010 to be used effectively within their current limitations and validated against real-world performance and existing structures. The bulletin responds to growing interest among asset owners, designers, and contractors in adopting service life design for buildings and infrastructure.
The document consists of six chapters and two annexes. Following an introduction to the general design procedure, it discusses reinforcement corrosion design, focusing on the input parameters for MC2010’s carbonation and chloride ingress models, along with corresponding sensitivity analyses. Chapter 4 presents example calculations, Chapter 5 offers concluding remarks, and Chapter 6 highlights remaining gaps in current knowledge. Annex A describes the corrosion propagation process, while Annex B provides an overview of how previous fib Model Codes addressed design service life modelling.
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