Concrete deterioration results in different damage extents, from cracking to concrete spalling, from losses of reinforcement cross-sections to bond losses. A relevant prediction of concrete durability and structural performance is the basis for a successful management of the concrete structures. Conversely, the large amount of uncertainties related to parameters and models require a specific analysis in order to provide relevant results. Supported by the French National Research Agency (ANR - grant ANR-2006-PGCU-001), the APPLET project (Probabilistic and predictive performance-based approach for assessing reinforced concrete structures lifetime) was intended to deliver models, methods and robust and validated tools. This ambition is underlined by a red line that is characterised by three keywords: performance-based, predictive and probabilistic. Performance assessment implies to define indicators and monitoring parameters. Prognosis requires the development of robust and pertinent physical models. Probabilistic characterisation must only rely on reliable data for modeling the variability of the parameters introduced in the predictive models. This latter point explains why the APPLET project has been based on large experimental activities.
This special issue of the European Journal of Environmental and Civil Engineering presents the most significant advances targeted by the research project. All the papers have been peer-reviewed and constitute a major contribution to the development of a probabilistic and predictive performance-based approach for concrete structures. Further information can be found on the project website where the full set of deliverables can be freely downloaded (http://or.lcpc.fr/applet).