Durability performance acceptance criteria for concrete structures

In this paper a novel probabilistic model framework for establishing durability performance acceptance criteria for newly built concrete structures is presented. The aim being to provide to owners of structures a consistent basis for assessing and specifying the acceptability of newly constructed structures. The spatial variability of the parameters which are decisive for the service life durability performance is modeled probabilistically in terms of sample statistics which may be assessed by testing of as built structures. This facilitates comparison of the performance of a given structure with specified requirements. The requirements to the service life performance are formulated in terms of the probability that the structure will be in a certain condition state after a given number of years. Requirement can thus be specified as e.g. maximum 40 percent of the surface of the structure exhibits visible corrosion after 50 years of service. Whereas the paper specifically addresses chloride induced deterioration the framework is general and may be applied equally well for the consideration of other phenomena as well. An example is provided illustrating the framework, the required information as well as the format of the acceptance criteria.