ABSTRACT
2Structural performance should be maintained above a certain threshold during the service life of a deteriorating structure. Financial resources for inspection, monitoring and maintenance have to be allocated consistently and rationally. Life-cycle performance and cost analysis can provide a practical solution to addressing the issues associated with the management of deteriorating structures under uncertainty. Chapter 1 presents the probabilistic concepts of life-cycle performance and cost analysis. This analysis requires an understanding of (a) structural performance under various deterioration mechanisms, (b) effects of maintenance actions on structural performance, cost and service life under uncertainty, and (c) structural performance indicators. The representative structural performance indicators associated with condition, safety, tolerance to damage and cost are described. Furthermore, the life-cycle optimization for service life management is also discussed. The objectives of life-cycle optimization are formulated based on the life-cycle performance and cost analysis. Finally, recent investigations into life-cycle optimization for fatigue-sensitive structures are addressed.
