The deterioration of concrete structures presents a significant challenge for global infrastructure. Climate change is expected to cause more extreme events, and the increasing use of low-carbon sustainable materials also introduces difficulties in applying existing standards. My research addresses these issues by developing integrated computational modelling and innovative field-sensing technologies to accurately predict deterioration processes. My work aims to extend the service life of critical infrastructures and guide the implementation of adaptive, proactive maintenance strategies that align with evolving sustainability standards.
The recent demand for life cycle decarbonization of structures highlights the need for a mechanistic understanding of their deterioration. From my perspective, existing concrete structures, serving as a significant carbon sink, now outweigh the CO2 emissions from new construction. The key opportunity for industry-wide decarbonization lies in understanding structural deterioration and developing new standards that ensure timely, effective rehabilitation, avoiding unnecessary repairs based on outdated practices.
Ph.D. Civil Engineering, 2023
University of Saskatchewan
M.Sc. Civil Engineering, 2014
University of Saskatchewan
B.Eng. Material Science and Engineering, 2008
Chongqing University
This research explores the combined effects of chloride ions, carbonation, and relative humidity on rebar corrosion in mortar. It reveals how these factors influence the volumetric water content and resistivity of mortar, resulting in complex corrosion behavior. The study emphasizes the importance of considering these interactions for accurate corrosion prediction and enhanced durability of reinforced concrete structures.
This study used a 3-D transport model to analyze corrosion in an old arch bridge’s reinforcement under carbonation and chloride attack, factoring in realistic microclimates. Field data on oxygen, moisture, chloride, and carbonation levels informed the analysis. Findings show varying corrosion rates due to environmental factors, highlighting the need for diverse maintenance strategies according to climate scenarios.
This research established a method to quantify corrosion parameters like potential, current density, and Tafel slopes for rebar in simulated conditions. It examined how depassivation duration, chloride concentration, carbonation, and humidity affect these parameters. Notably, in partially saturated mortar, no distinct threshold was found for critical chloride content, and humidity significantly influenced depassivation indicated by shifts in corrosion parameters.
This dataset provides comprehensive corrosion parameter data for reinforcing steel (rebar) in simulated pore solutions and mortar. It includes detailed measurements of corrosion potential, corrosion current density, and Tafel slopes under various chloride levels and carbonation treatments. The data aims to shed light on the corrosion behaviour of rebar in environments that closely mimic real-world conditions.
Rational-RC is a practical life cycle deterioration modelling framework. It utilizes the field survey data and provides probabilistic predictions of the RC structure deterioration through different stages of the service life cycle. It covers various deterioration mechanisms such as membrane deterioration, concrete carbonation and chloride penetration, corrosion and cracking.
This webapp converts electrode potential readings across different references and temperatures. It supports SHE, SCE, CSE, and Ag/AgCl electrodes, enabling users to input values, choose references, and set temperatures for precise conversions. It accounts for thermal effects and includes a visualization tool for easy result interpretation.
Features: + Commonly used reference electrodes.
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