ABSTRACT
In the classical approach to multi-objective optimum structural design, the objective functions and the design constraints are defined by considering the structural performance at the initial time of construction, when the system is undamaged. However, for structures exposed to damaging environments the structural performance must be considered as timedependent, mainly because of the progressive deterioration of the materials. For this reason, a consistent approach to optimum design of durable structures should be able to comply with the desired performance not only at the initial time of construction, but also during the overall structural lifetime, by taking into account the effects of the unavoidable sources of mechanical damage and of eventual maintenance and rehabilitation interventions.
