Decision support for inspections using a probabilistic approach

Authors

Tina H. Johnsen, Mette Sloth and Michael H. Faber

Abstract

The present paper introduces a risk-indicator based approach to inspection and maintenance planning of concrete structures. The method has been applied in Report No.261 of the Danish Road directorate. A probabilistic model to quantify the quality of half-cell potential mapping (a NDT-method indicating the risk of initiated reinforcement corrosion) has been set up. The study is based on a large number of half cell potential measurements performed on Danish highway bridges. Correlated values of measured half-cell potentials and visual observations of the real condition of the reinforcement from excavations form the basis for a probability-based evaluation of the quality of the inspection method. The applicability of the approach is illustrated on an example considering a probabilistic deterioration model relevant for reinforced concrete highway bridges subjected to chloride induced corrosion. The optimisation of inspection and maintenance strategies is undertaken for a simplified decision model

Published in/by

Proceedings IABMAS'04, 2nd International Conference on Bridge Maintenance, Safety and Management, Kyoto, Japan, October 18-22, 2004.