Damage risks and cost-benefit analysis of climate adaptation strategies of RC structures in Australia

摘要

An increase of CO2 concentration in the atmosphere and changes in temperature and humidity may cause an acceleration of deterioration processes of reinforced concrete (RC) structures as a result of climate change. This paper will describe cost-benefit analysis of climate adaptation strategies for new RC structures in Australia. Spatial time-dependent reliability analysis is used to predict likelihood and extent of carbonation-induced corrosion damage and corresponding damage costs. The cost-benefit analysis includes the estimation of costs of adaptation strategies and corrosion damage, as well as cost effectiveness of adaptation strategies for RC buildings in three Australian cities (Sydney, Canberra and Brisbane) under two climate emission scenarios. Adaptation strategies include increasing concrete cover and upgrading concrete strength. The results show that upgrading concrete strength for beams and small slabs may be more cost effective than the current durability design provisions. Break-even analysis is also applied to estimate the maximum adaptation cost to make an adaptation strategy cost effective.