High-temperature LCF behaviour of Gaussian-pitted high-strength high-ductility steel rebars

Abstract

Fatigue of high-strength high-ductility steel rebars under pitting corrosion and high-temperature remains largely unknown, specifically concerning temperature-dependent pit sensitivity effects, limiting their widespread adoption despite advantages. This study performs high-temperature, low-cycle fatigue tests on Fe 500D rebars with Gaussian pits. Moreover, experimental results are compared with average strain energy density method, augmented with fractography-based, temperature-dependent parameter models, including exponential pit sensitivity function. Results show accelerated cyclic softening, with up to 94% and 91% reductions in fatigue life and energy dissipation capacity in corroded rebars, respectively. The findings enhance fatigue life predictions, aiding the design of more resilient and safer structures.