Deterioration of concrete building structures

This paper discusses the theories and designs for the structural reliability and durability of reinforced concrete structures over time. The author considers the benefits of assessing deterioration of structural performance over time in order to have a rational and cost-effective maintenance strategy. The paper focuses on how to assess building structural performance and hence predict the appropriate maintenance intervals. Ongoing research activities in structural durability are discussed. More research is required to develop design tools to model expectations of required performance exists throughout the service life of structures.