Evaluation and Repair of a Reinforced Concrete Structure: A Case Study

Abstract

Reinforced concrete structure durability has been getting a lot of attention in academic research related to building security and stability. Thus, knowledge about the condition of the structures, particularly those affected by issue symptoms, is a powerful tool to minimize costs and improve structural reinforcement and repair service efficiency. Steel corrosion in reinforced concrete frames is the most frequent pathological manifestation in buildings around the world, and it is closely linked to the concept of structural integrity and safety. This paper describes, explains and remarks on the services performed by a company specialized in structure pathology in determining the causes, origins and mechanisms involved in steel corrosion in reinforced concrete frames in the ground and mezzanine floors of a building located in the coastal city of Cabedelo/PB. Mechanical, physical, chemical and electrochemical tests were conducted in the structure, and the conclusion was that concrete carbonation was the mechanism behind the pathological manifestation, and the source of the issue was linked to the execution of the work. The therapy process adopted was divided into levels related to the degree and progress in the observed degradation, and a few structural repair techniques were adopted, such as traditional structure repair, chemical realkalinization, corrosion inhibition and surface protection.