Reliability-Based Code Calibration in Civil Engineering: A Critical Review

Abstract

The use of new materials and the complexities in modern civil engineering infrastructures call for a systematic attempt to find accurate design solutions. It is clear that deterministic values are not reliable and that their use in the design of civil engineering structures can lead to instant failures. Thus, the use of the probability theory to determine the most reliable value of a parameter for the design of civil engineering structures is very relevant. This work is intended to review the literature on the application of probability theory in the calibration of civil engineering design codes. Consequently, to better evaluate designs and design details, it is important to understand the techniques as highlighted herein.