Life-cycle performance evaluation framework for GFRP-reinforced concrete structures subject to marine environment

Abstract

Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) is increasingly preferred in civil engineering due to its outstanding mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. However, the long-term performance and durability of GFRP-reinforced concrete (RC) structures in harsh marine environments present significant challenges. This study develops a comprehensive probabilistic assessment framework for evaluating the long-term performance and reliability of GFRP-RC structures subject to environmental actions. The framework incorporates a heat-moisture transport model as well as mechanical deterioration models for GFRP bars. Key considerations include the moisture absorption and desorption processes within concrete pores and their interactions with variables such as porosity, temperature fluctuations, and relative humidity. In addition, the framework integrates tensile and bond strength deterioration models for GFRP bars and a flexural capacity assessment model for GFRP-RC structures, all of which are validated against experimental data to ensure their robustness and accuracy. To demonstrate the applicability of the developed framework, a GFRP-RC beam located in a coastal region is supposed to perform a time-dependent reliability analysis (TDRA). The analysis evaluates the randomness of material properties, transport modes, and global warming scenarios using the probability density function-informed method (PDFM) and Importance Sampling (IS) to enhance computational efficiency. The results provide critical insights into the performance evolution of GFRP-RC beams under marine environments, confirming their robustness and durability over prolonged service periods.