Title: Durability by Design Approaches to Specifying Durable Concrete for the Sorell Causeway Bridge

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Publication: CIA

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Date: 2/13/2011

Abstract:
Chloride-induced corrosion of reinforcing steel in concrete is a major issue for asset owners throughout the world and was a significant factor in the decision to replace the Sorell Causeway Bridge near Hobart in Tasmania which was completed in 1957. Provision of a durable structure was consequently a primary objective of the Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources (DIER) in the processes adopted for the replacement. Fick.s 2nd Law of Diffusion is a widely accepted model for chloride ingress into concrete and was used deterministically and probabilistically in the development of tender documentation and to assist with the assessment of tenders for the project. Illustrative examples of its application are provided. The modelling highlights the difficulty in achieving a 100 year service life for concrete structures in aggressive marine environments.