A reliability-based method was developed for\npredicting the initiation time and the probability of flexural\nfailure for continuous slab bridges with load-induced\ncracks exposed to chloride environment resulting from deicing\nsalts. A practical methodology was used for predicting\nthe diffusion coefficient of chloride ingress into the\npre-existing load-induced cracks in concrete. The reduction\nin the cross-sectional area of the reinforcement due to\ncorrosion was included in the model. The proposed\nmethodology accounts for uncertainties in the strength\ndemand, structural capacity, and corrosion models, as well\nas uncertainties in environmental conditions, material\nproperties, and structural geometry. All probabilistic data\non uncertainties were estimated from the information\ncontained in previous experimental and statistical studies.\nAs an application of the proposed model, a three-span\ncontinuous slab bridge in Ohio is presented for demonstration\nof the developed methodology. A comparison of\nresults clearly shows the importance of considering the\neffects of the load-induced cracks for correct prediction of\nthe initiation of corrosion time and the critical time to\nmaintain structural integrity.
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