Mechanics for infrastructure maintenance problems

Abstract

This paper describes the scope of mechanics for infrastructure maintenance problems. The domain of problems encompasses all the lifecycle stages of structures. Physical, chemical, or mathematical models need to be developed so that understanding, prediction, and control of deterioration mechanisms can be made possible. Those models should take advantage of feedback and interchange of existing structures' state information. The paper is organized with four subjects: fracture and delamination, life-span simulation of concrete materials and structures, structural monitoring and control under service conditions, and system integration. State of the arts and future outlook on the subjects are discussed.