ABSTRACT
In this paper for concrete bridges various deterioration mechanisms are described. Corrosion of reinforcement due to chlorides seems the main cause of damage. Therefore, the main influence factors for initiation and propagation of corrosion are elaborated, such as cracks. It is concluded that with the existing testing techniques and deterioration models it is not possible to give an accurate prediction of initiation or propagation of corrosion. This is mainly because of the highly (local) variation in concrete and steel-concrete interface. Current inspections and condition assessments mainly focus on the shorter term up to 10 years. But for service contractors in projects where only a few existing structures in the contract have to be maintained for about 30 years, the future maintenance or renovation costs and associated indirect costs for hindrance are needed to minimize the risk of structural failure and optimize the maintenance budget. Therefore improvement of service-life assessment models is needed.
