Concrete Inspection, Testing and Repair

Concrete analysis is a complicated subject for which a vast amount of research and development has been undertaken over the years. The following paragraphs summarise some of the more common defects which we have dealt with.

Dealing with concrete is a specialist subject and an in-depth understanding of the behaviour and design of concrete is necessary when dealing with this subject. There are many problems commonly found in concrete such as physical damage caused by vehicular impact and damage caused by concrete being incompatible with the ever changing environment. Spalling in concrete can be due to a number of factors from corroding reinforcement, high salt content through to Alkaline Aggregate Reaction (AAR), commonly known as concrete cancer. AAR is a result of high alkaline content of cements reacting with certain aggregates in concrete. This causes the aggregates to chemically transform into a gel like material which when moist, swells, exerting considerable pressure on the concrete which can cause both cracking and de-bonding of reinforcement.

Corrosion of reinforcement occurs when concrete has been damaged and also if the alkalinity of concrete has been neutralised by an acid environment. A detailed investigation is necessary to determine the cause of corroding reinforcement and there are a number of proven remedies which can be very successful.

We have recently worked on a case where reinforced concrete floor slabs to a 1960's shopping complex had failed. Extensive site investigation, testing and structural analysis was undertaken, together with remedial proposals, incorporated within an expert witness report.

We have experience in the assessment, monitoring, testing and repairing of bridges, car parks, buildings and other large concrete structures.