Abstract
This study applies a digital twin–based multi-scale and multi-physics simulation framework for durability assessment of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. The framework integrates thermo-hygro-chemical and structural analyses using DuCOM–COM3 to capture time-dependent deterioration processes such as fatigue and corrosion, and to assess their effects on structural performance under realistic environmental and loading conditions. Two case studies illustrate the methodology. The first addresses the fatigue behaviour of RC bridge slabs under moving wheel loads in both dry and wet environments. Numerical simulations reproduced field-observed deterioration patterns, including top-surface disintegration in wet conditions, and led to the development of a simplified predictive equation to support inspection planning and maintenance scheduling. The second case focuses on a corroded RC jetty superstructure in a marine environment. Field-calibrated chloride ingress and corrosion models were applied to evaluate long-term performance under alternative repair scenarios. Analyses showed that surface coating can be highly effective when both moisture and oxygen ingress are restricted, and that unmitigated corrosion not only reduces load-carrying capacity but also alters failure modes despite apparent structural redundancy. In both cases, the calibrated digital twin reproduced the present damage state and projected future deterioration under different intervention strategies, providing a rational basis for determining the scope and timing of repairs. By embedding inspection data and site-specific environmental histories into a unified material–structure simulation from the time of construction, this approach supports evidence-based lifecycle management and the development of durability-focused design provisions. These findings highlight the potential of combining digital twin technology with advanced numerical simulation to bridge the gap between material degradation modelling and structural performance assessment in concrete infrastructure.
Keywords
digital twin, reinforced concrete, fatigue, corrosion, maintenance planning.
DOI
10.5703/1288284318126
Recommended Citation
Ishida, Tetsuya and Takahashi, Yuya, "Enhancing the Durability of Concrete Structures through Digital Twins and Advanced Numerical Simulation" (2025). International Conference on Durability of Concrete Structures. 4.
https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/icdcs/2025/keynote/4
Enhancing the Durability of Concrete Structures through Digital Twins and Advanced Numerical Simulation
This study applies a digital twin–based multi-scale and multi-physics simulation framework for durability assessment of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. The framework integrates thermo-hygro-chemical and structural analyses using DuCOM–COM3 to capture time-dependent deterioration processes such as fatigue and corrosion, and to assess their effects on structural performance under realistic environmental and loading conditions. Two case studies illustrate the methodology. The first addresses the fatigue behaviour of RC bridge slabs under moving wheel loads in both dry and wet environments. Numerical simulations reproduced field-observed deterioration patterns, including top-surface disintegration in wet conditions, and led to the development of a simplified predictive equation to support inspection planning and maintenance scheduling. The second case focuses on a corroded RC jetty superstructure in a marine environment. Field-calibrated chloride ingress and corrosion models were applied to evaluate long-term performance under alternative repair scenarios. Analyses showed that surface coating can be highly effective when both moisture and oxygen ingress are restricted, and that unmitigated corrosion not only reduces load-carrying capacity but also alters failure modes despite apparent structural redundancy. In both cases, the calibrated digital twin reproduced the present damage state and projected future deterioration under different intervention strategies, providing a rational basis for determining the scope and timing of repairs. By embedding inspection data and site-specific environmental histories into a unified material–structure simulation from the time of construction, this approach supports evidence-based lifecycle management and the development of durability-focused design provisions. These findings highlight the potential of combining digital twin technology with advanced numerical simulation to bridge the gap between material degradation modelling and structural performance assessment in concrete infrastructure.
