Recommended Citation
Postprint version. Published in Journal of Structural Engineering, Volume 130, Issue 9, September 1, 2004, pages 1414-1419.
NOTE: At the time of publication, the author Allen Estes was affiliated with the United States Military Academy - West Point, NY. Currently, August 2008, he is Head and Professor of Architectural Engineering at California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo.
The definitive version is available at https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)0733-9445(2004)130:9(1414).
Abstract
The present paper investigates the effect of limit state selection (strength versus serviceability) on bridge deck life-cycle costs and thus on optimal repair strategies. Such a comparison may then help determine whether safety or functionality (or both) are important criteria when optimizing bridge life-cycle performance and costs. The structural element under consideration is a reinforced concrete bridge deck; namely, a State Highway Bridge in Colorado. Two limit states are considered: ultimate strength and serviceability. The exceedence of either of the limit states considered herein will result in deck replacement; namely, if the reliability index falls below a target reliability index or if widespread cracking and spalling occurs. The life-cycle cost analysis includes expected replacement costs as well as the random variability of material properties, loads, section dimensions, model errors, chloride penetration, and corrosion rates. Life-cycle costs can then be compared for strength and serviceability limit state violations. Life-cycle costs for deck replacement based on a serviceability limit state were generally larger than those obtained for the strength limit states. Hence, an unrealistically optimistic life-cycle cost will result when serviceability is not included in the analysis.
Disciplines
Architectural Engineering
Copyright
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/aen_fac/10
