An Initial Investigation on the Potential Applicability of Non-Destructive Methods to Assessing Joint Condition in Prefabricated Structures

Abstract

Prefabricated structures have brought quite a new quality into the design of building construction method, which in turn required deeper theoretical knowledge, replacing empirical approaches by theory, replacing idealized and often simplified models of structure behaviour by accurate material physical models and load models. High rigidity of prefabricated concrete structures and the resulting stress states, which are mainly due to the volume change effects (temperature, humidity), effects of the foundation base shape variations etc., are among the most frequent causes of failures, particularly of joints of building elements featuring insufficient yield and bearing capacity. Investigation of all prefabricated building types shows progressing joint armature corrosion, considerable impairment of welds, which should secure the positional reliability of façade slabs.The paper presents some results of our experimental study of the application potential of the impact-echo method to the non-destructive assessment of the present joint condition in prefabricated structures.

Construction Quality of Prefabricated Buildings Using Structural Equation Modeling

“…The performance of full-size glass fiber-reinforced polymer concrete shells under concentric compression showed that the longitudinal fibers increased the load carrying capacity of the columns, and the glass fiberreinforced polymer shells eliminated the need for closely spaced restrained steel, thereby improving the quality of fabricated buildings [8]. Manychova Monika et al [9] replaced the idealized and simplified models of structural behavior with accurate physical and load models using potential impact echo methods to assess the nodal condition of existing prefabricated structures. Michael J. Louis [10] reviewed the basic principles and concepts for the design of waterproofing systems for prefabricated brick wall panels to enhance the quality of prefabricated components.…”

Diagnostics of Reinforcement Conditions in Concrete Structures by GPR, Impact-Echo Method and Metal Magnetic Memory Method

“…In the case of the impact-echo method, the method is suitable for the detection, localization, and evaluation of discontinuities inside concrete [14][15][16], including evaluation of nonlinear effects [17][18][19]. Its advantage is that it allows measuring even in cases where it is not possible to evaluate the condition of the reinforcement directly in the monitored area (directly above it).…”