| Abstract: |
Reinforced concrete (RC) water treatment facilities represent critical infrastructure components subjected to complex and aggressive environmental conditions throughout their operational lifespan. The structural performance assessment of these facilities has gained increasing attention due to escalating concerns regarding durability degradation, premature deterioration, and the substantial economic implications of rehabilitation and replacement. This review paper presents a comprehensive meta-analysis of past research work focused on the structural behavior, durability challenges, design optimization strategies, and emerging future perspectives associated with RC water treatment plants, reservoirs, and associated hydraulic structures. The paper synthesizes findings from diverse investigations encompassing chloride-induced corrosion, chemical attack mechanisms, freeze-thaw deterioration, and structural fatigue phenomena that collectively compromise the integrity of water containment and treatment structures. Furthermore, the review critically examines various design optimization methodologies including advanced material formulations, protective coating systems, structural health monitoring frameworks, and computational modeling approaches that have been proposed and validated through experimental and field studies. The analysis reveals significant research gaps in standardized assessment protocols, long-term performance prediction models, and integrated sustainability frameworks. Future research directions emphasizing smart material integration, digital twin technologies, and life-cycle cost optimization are identified as promising avenues for advancing the field toward more resilient and sustainable water infrastructure systems. |
