Analysis of Application of Gradient Concrete Models to Assess Concrete Cover Degradation Under Reinforcement Corrosion

The paper presents a comparative analysis of the application of two nonlocal gradient-formulated models to evaluate the concrete cover degradation time. Calculations were made taking into account the increase in the volume of the steel ring around the perimeter of the reinforcement bar. The results of the calculations were compared with the results of experimental studies published in the literature and with the elastic-plastic model based on the Menetrey-Willam surface, in which the objectivity of the obtained results depends on the fracture energy. In addition, the paper compares solutions using different contact models and cohesion models.