The Sustainability Performance of Reinforced Concrete Structures in Tunnel Lining Induced by Long-Term Coastal Environment

Abstract

At present, the damage caused by steel corrosion to structures has become a serious problem all over the world. In order to study the mechanical behaviors of tunnel lining structure system under the corrosive environment to rebars, first, the bending tests were performed to investigate the crack propagation behavior and structural bearing capacity of the reinforced concrete bending members degraded by corrosion. Secondly, the pull-out tests were performed to investigate the degradation of bonding strength between corroded rebars and the concrete. Finally, on the basis of the findings from the pull-out tests, a 3-D finite element bond-slip model of reinforced concrete lining structure has been established to simulate the changes of bearing capacity and durability of tunnel reinforced concrete lining under different corrosion degrees. The research has revealed: Rebar corrosion is the most important factor affecting concrete and steel corrosion. As the conversion rust rate increases, the ultimate drawing force continues to decrease. With the increase of the corrosion rate, the deflection of the specimen when it is destroyed becomes smaller, the cracking load becomes smaller and the bearing capacity also decreases. As the degree of corrosion increases, the overall deformation of the tunnel increases, and the overall safety of the lining structure decreases. The corner position is the most prone to problems after the lining structure is corroded, so pay more attention. As well, the safety of the lining structure will be basically lost when the final corrosion rate of the steel bars is greater than 30%. The findings of this research can be used to evaluate the corrosion degree of tunnel reinforced concrete lining structure and support the durability design of new tunnel concrete lining structure.