Diagnosis of Deterioration in Concrete Structures - Process, Steps and Common Methodology

Introduction

Concrete being a very durable material has potential to serve long unless subjected to the deterioration by external agents. Diagnosing a defect can be established through determination of its prevailing cause. An investigation should lead to the identification of various types of fault and mechanisms of deterioration in the structure. It is important to differentiate between the construction defects and ongoing problems.

Preliminary Investigation	reviewing documents related to the structure and its construction undertaking a preliminary site visit considering and implementing access and safety provisions selecting numbers and locations of samples and laboratory test methods
Detail Investigation	undertaking on-site visual inspection sampling and in situ testing followed by lab testing
Assessment & Recommendations	interpreting results & finding causes of deterioration Structural assessment & remaining service life reporting on findings.

Elements of Investigation Programme

The typical phases of an investigation programme include the following:

Preliminary Investigation

The scope and methodology of a preliminary investigation can involve one or more of the following steps depending on the size and complexity of the project.