We present a new mechanistic framework for corrosion-induced cracking in reinforced concrete that resolves
the underlying chemo-mechanical processes. The framework combines, for the first time, (i) a model for
reactive transport and precipitation of dissolved Fe2+ and Fe3+ ions in the concrete pore space, (ii) a
precipitation eigenstrain model for the pressure caused by the accumulation of precipitates (rusts) under pore
confinement conditions, (iii) a phase-field model calibrated for the quasi-brittle fracture behaviour of concrete,
and (iv) a damage-dependent diffusivity tensor. Finite element model predictions show good agreement with
experimental data from impressed current tests under natural-like corrosion current densities.