The question that regularly arises for the engineer charged with assessing an existing structure that has not deteriorated concerns how to establish the structural diagnosis of the structure. First, it is necessary to ensure that the structure, when subjected to loads and overloads, retains its normal behavior, i.e. conforms to the design predictions. It is essential to understand why and how design and construction rules have evolved, as well as their inaccuracies, shortcomings and even errors.

Reinforced Concrete from 1906 to Today details the various calculation codes introduced into French regulations, from the first in 1906 to Eurocode 2, which is currently in force.

Xavier Lauzin is an expert in civil engineering structures. He is a graduate of ESTP and teaches at CESI, Conservatoire national des arts et métiers, Office International de l'Eau and ENGEES, France.

Liliya Shakamalova is a specialist in Franco-Russian building and civil engineering structures. She is a graduate of the Engineering Faculty of the Russian Peoples' Friendship University, Department of Construction, Russia.