Seismic Performance and Nonlinear Flexural Behavior of Corroded Reinforced Concrete Columns: An Analytical and Parametric Study

This study presents an analytical investigation and a parametric evaluation of the structural behavior and seismic performance of highly corroded reinforced concrete (RC) columns, based on previously conducted experimental studies by the authors. In the analytical phase, moment–curvature relationships were obtained by considering the deterioration of the mechanical properties of both concrete and reinforcing steel due to corrosion in RC column specimens. By linking the sectional moment–curvature response with the element-level behavior observed in the experimental program, the plastic hinge lengths and rotational capacities of the corroded RC columns were determined. Subsequently, a parametric study was carried out using the analytical framework developed in the first phase on a set of 48 RC column models. In this investigation, axial load ratio, concrete compressive strength, corrosion level, section type, and concrete cover depth were considered as key parameters. The results of the combined experimental and analytical investigations demonstrate that the adopted section analysis approach successfully captures the nonlinear flexural behavior observed in the corroded specimens and provides a reliable basis for evaluating the structural performance and for supporting the assessment of seismic performance of deteriorated RC columns.