Volume 9, Issue 5, May – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology

ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24MAY789

Structural Assessment & Repair Techniques

Sushant Shelke, Student
M.Tech Construction Management
MITCOM, MIT ADT University, Pune, India

Abstract:- Structures are meticulously designed to  To have knowledge about the strength of structures,
withstand predetermined loads throughout their surveys to be required to conduct.
lifespan. However, reinforced concrete (RC) structures,
which have been widely employed worldwide for the II. DETERIORATION OF STRUCTURES
past 50-60 years, are susceptible to a range of issues
leading to varying degrees of damage. Factors such as Concrete deterioration is primarily influenced by
material deterioration, construction techniques, several factors that is permeability, carbonation, chemical
workmanship quality, overloading, aggressive attacks, alkali-aggregate reaction, and physical wear and
environments, and the fatigue and corrosion of tear such as thermal expansion and contraction and
embedded steel reinforcement contribute to the natural abrasion. Typically, the degradation of concrete structures
degradation of RCC. This deterioration is now evident manifests through common signs like cracking and
in numerous concrete structures. In the current spalling. Among these factors, the corrosion of
landscape of building research, the significance of reinforcement is a critical contributor to the deterioration
repair and rehabilitation cannot be overstated. This is process. Despite advancements in building construction, all
particularly crucial in developed countries where structures undergo degradation over time, with the rate of
extensive rehabilitation efforts, especially for heritage deterioration influenced by various factors, these factors are
buildings, are imperative due to their cultural and within the control of the occupants during the design and
historical significance. Dealing with these challenges construction.
requires a systematic approach, encompassing thorough
assessments, innovative repair strategies, and a  Damages in RC Structures:
commitment to sustainable solutions to ensure the
longevity and resilience of our built environment.  Cracks
 Leakages
Keywords:- Repair – Rehabilitation – Damage Assessment  Deflection
– Maintenance.  Wear and tear
 Settlement
I. INTRODUCTION  Spalling
 Disintegration
Existing structures approaching the end of their service
 Delamination
life and displaying signs of deterioration necessitate
technical intervention to enhance their longevity and prevent  Over loading
potential failures, whether triggered by seismic events or  Environment
other structural issues. Degradation / Disintegration of  Materials used for construction
buildings can result from, For Eg. weathering, fires, natural  Corrosion
disasters like earthquakes, floods, tsunamis, cyclones, soil-
structure interaction (such as settlement or soil failure), III. DAMAGE ASSESSMENT OF STRUCTURES
construction defects, and more. Following a comprehensive
technical evaluation of these structures, a decision must be A. Structural Audits:
made regarding whether to repair or replace the structure or Structural audits are essential for the maintenance and
its components. This decision-making process should align repair of existing structures and it is compulsory for the
with considerations of economic feasibility, construction buildings of 30+ years of age as per municipal Rules. After
viability, and adherence to the latest trends and techniques 15 years it is important to carry out structural audit and
in the field. after that every 5 years of intervals the structural audit is
mandatory. Aiming to prevent mishaps and safeguard
 Objective of Study: human life. Many multi-storey concrete apartments
constructed are now over thirty years old, exhibiting
 To Know the terms used in Building repairs and reduced strength due to structural deficiencies, deterioration
rehabilitation of structures. of materials, overloading, and damages due to overloading.
 To study various assessment procedure for structures The continuous use of such damaged structures poses a
 To check the quality of concrete in RCC structures. potential threat to occupants and nearby habitation,
emphasizing the need for proactive measures. Periodical
structural audits are crucial for assessing the present

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Volume 9, Issue 5, May – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24MAY789

serviceability and structural viability of buildings. estimate of the concrete strength at the surface and may not
Structural auditing facilitates the implementation of represent the overall strength of the entire structure.
maintenance and repair work, extending the building's
Durability and ensuring occupant safety. In India,
numerous old buildings face strength reduction over time,
and the persistent use of such structures may endanger
lives. Responsible preemptive actions should include
issuing notices by municipal corporations to buildings and
co-operative societies over 30 years old, mandating
structural audits and submission of audit reports. It
underscores the importance of different repair and
retrofitting measures post-audit, emphasizing the health and
performance of a building. Structural audits, ensure the
safety of buildings and recommend appropriate repairs and
retrofitting measures. Conducted by experienced and
licensed structural consultants, these audits address
structural deficiencies, material deterioration, unexpected
overloading, or physical damage. Premature material
deterioration, often due to construction specification
violations or exposure to harsh service environments,
necessitates restoration through appropriate repair
techniques to meet functional requirements. While the term
'repair' may imply small fixes, rehabilitation aims to restore
distressed structures to their original durability. Fig 1: Rebound Hammer Test

B. Non Destructive Evaluation Tests: Table 1: Quality of Concrete from Rebound Numbers
Various non-destructive Tests (NDT) are available for Average rebound number Quality of concrete
assessing the in-situ strength and quality of concrete in > 40 Hard layer
structural members. It play a crucial role in evaluating the 30 to 40 Good
damage sustained by reinforced concrete structures exposed 20 to 30 Fair
to corrosion, chemical attack, fire, and other environmental < 20 Poor
stressors. The term 'non-destructive' emphasizes that these 0 Delaminated
tests do not compromise the intended performance of the
structural elements under investigation. The field of non-  Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV) :
destructive evaluation is broadly categorized into two main The UPV test involves sending the ultrasonic pulses
groups: 'in-situ field tests' and 'laboratory tests.' These through the concrete using transducers. These pulses travel
categories encompass a range of techniques designed to through the material, and their velocity is recorded. The
provide valuable insights into the condition of concrete speed of these pulses is influenced by the elastic properties
members without causing any harm to their structural and density of the concrete. Typically, sound waves travel
integrity. This nuanced evaluation methodology is faster in denser and more structurally sound concrete.
particularly beneficial in diagnosing issues related to Measuring the travel time, denoted as 'T,' of an ultrasonic
durability, assessing the impact of environmental factors, pulse typically within the frequency range of 50-54 kHz. It
and ensuring the ongoing reliability of concrete structures. is used to evaluate the quality and integrity of concrete

 Rebound Hammer Test: Table 2: Quality of concrete Using UPV as per

The rebound hammer test provides a quick and simple IS 13311-1992
way to estimate the strength of the concrete surface. It Velocity Concrete Quality
consists of a spring-loaded mass when released it impacts > 4.5 km/s Very good
the surface of the concrete. The rebound distance of the 3.5 to 4.5 km/s Good to very good
hammer is measured and correlated to the concrete's 3.0 to 3.5 km/s Satisfactory
compressive strength. Harder the concrete, the higher the < 3.0 km/s Poor
rebound value. It is particularly useful in the field for
assessing the uniformity of concrete strength across a
structure or for identifying areas of potential concern.
However, it's essential to note that the test provides only an

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Volume 9, Issue 5, May – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24MAY789

Fig 2: Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity Test

 Core Sampling and Testing:

Cores are typically precision-cut using a rotary Drill
tool with diamond bits, resulting in cylindrical Sample. A
detailed visual inspection and photographic documentation
follow, with a specific focus on compaction, aggregate
distribution, and the presence of steel. Subsequently, the
cores undergo a meticulous process: soaking in water and
capping with molten sulfur. This ensures that the ends
become flat, parallel, and perpendicular. The final step
involves compression testing under moist conditions,
adhering to established standards.

 Carbonation Test:
A carbonation test is used to determine the depth of Fig 3: Half-Cell Potential Setup
carbonation in RCC structures. It is a chemical reaction that
occurs when carbon dioxide reacts with the hydrated Table 3: Corrosion Intensity based on Results
cement minerals in concrete, leading to a reduction in the Value Corrosion Intensity
alkalinity of the concrete and potential corrosion of Less than 200 mv 10% Corrosion
embedded steel reinforcement. This test is crucial for
200 mv to 350 mv 50% Corrosion
assessing the durability and potential long-term
performance of concrete structures. Less than 350 mv 90% Corrosion

 Half-Cell Potential Test: IV. METHODOLOGY

Half-cell potential measurements help assess the
Probability of corrosion in reinforced concrete. A grid A. Visual Inspection of Building
pattern is used to measure the corrosion potential of the Visual inspection is a fundamental process in
rebar with a Cu/CuSO4 electrode. If the potentials are more assessing its overall condition, safety, and functionality of
positive than -0.2V, there's a 90% chance of no corrosion. building. It involves examination of exterior and interior
Readings more negative than -0.35V indicate a 90% chance components of building, aiming for identifying any visible
of active corrosion. Potentials between -0.2V and -0.35V signs of damage, deterioration & potential issues.
suggest potential breakdown of passivity and the possibility
of future corrosion. However, results may vary due to  Exterior Inspection:
moisture, carbonation, and salt levels, making the method
sometimes inconclusive.  Check for cracks, settling, or movement in the
foundation, walls, and columns.
 Inspect the condition of load-bearing elements for signs
of damage or stress.

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Volume 9, Issue 5, May – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24MAY789

 Examine the roof for leaks, missing shingles, or  Vibration (If any From nearby activities)
damaged flashing.  Presence of chemicals in soil
 Assess the condition of exterior walls, windows, and  Presence of HVAC ducts
doors for cracks, gaps, or water infiltration.  Wind direction
 Look for signs of water pooling around the foundation.  History of building Repairs, use or alterations
 Check for cracks or displacement in sidewalks,  Extensions or rebuilding carried out
driveways, and other paved surfaces.  Any accident
 Inspect utility connections, such as electrical, water, and  Type of concrete used (cement, sand, aggregate, use of
gas, for any visible issues. admixture)
 Check the condition of outdoor HVAC units.
D. Evaluation of Data:
 Interior Inspection: Identifying the Causes & Issues, understanding the
probable Reasons, and determining the factors contributing
 Inspect walls, ceilings, and floors for cracks or signs of to distress necessitate meticulous study and analysis of the
movement. information collected during the inspection stage. This data
 Check for any visible damage to structural components. is systematically tabulated on a performa tailored to the
 Examine the condition of wiring, outlets, and switches. available information for Evaluation. During the
 Check the electrical panel for signs of overheating or investigation, its crucial to document the conceivable
corrosion. factors. This comprehensive approach ensures that any
 Look for leaks or water stains around plumbing fixtures. features in the environment or within the concrete are
 Inspect visible pipes for signs of corrosion or damage. noted, enabling the identification of key issues and the
 Assess the condition of paint, wallpaper, and other formulation of necessary solutions.
interior finishes.
 Look for signs of water damage or mold growth. V. RESULTS AND OBSERVATION

B. Photographic Record: A. Case Study 1: A Three Storied RCC Framed Residential

It is essential for preliminary inspection of a distressed Building at Virar, Maharashtra
structure to capture necessary photographs of the affected
areas and its components. Conducting a preliminary
inspection and collecting relevant data is crucial for
effective planning and subsequent condition surveys during
field inspections. The observed signs of distress often
correlate with the life of the structure. This preliminary data
provides a understanding of the causes of damages.

C. Collecting Basic Information:

A Systematic program needs to be developed for
acquring comprehensive information about a distressed
structure, balancing the need for substantial details with
considerations of cost and time efficiency. Consequently, a Image 1: Residential Building
list outlining the required information from the owner or
client must be compiled. While acknowledging that owners  Salient Features
or clients may not have access to certain construction
details or related information, every effort should be made  Year of Construction : 1998
to gather as much relevant information as possible during  Date of Inspection : August 2023
the Preliminary Site Visit.  Type Of Structure : RCC Framed Structure
 Type Of Footing : No Data Available
 For Example:
 Number Of Flats : 32
 Number Of Shops :3
 Date of Visit
 Repair History/Any : No Data Available
 Name and address
 Alterations
 Building use
 Year of construction  Visual Observations
 Number of floors
 Area  Minor to Major cracks observed in Columns, beams,
 Type of construction slabs & walls
 Builder / Owner  Plumbing and Drain lines are having leakages
 Name of maintenance Company  Reinforcement was exposed and Heavily Corroded also
 Environmental conditions small portion of slab was collapsed

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Volume 9, Issue 5, May – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24MAY789

 Waist slab of staircase and soffit of beams exhibited  Solution of these issues are not life time.
delamination over 20%  It’s feasible for this case study.
 In few flats loft slab are been seen sagging
 Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity Test
 Non-Destructive Test:
 Values of pules velocity varied in the range of 3.0
 The field testing / laboratory testing of structural km/sec to 4.8km/sec.
members and reinforcements taken, for validating the  It’s feasible for this case study.
observations of visual inspection.
 If observations of the visual inspection conclude that the  Carbonation Test
NDT test results may fail Hence it was aborted.
 It may not be feasible for the client/owner of the  Carbonation was taken beyond the reinforcement level.
distressed Building.  It’s feasible for this case study.

B. Case Study 2: A two storied RCC Framed Industrial  Core Sampling and Testing
Building at Vasai
 Strength and density determination of concrete failed.

C. Case Study 3: A Three Storied RCC Framed Residential

Building with Shop line at Vasai

Image 2: Industrial Building

 Salient Features

 Year of Construction : 1997

 Date of Inspection : November 2022 Image 3: Residential Building
 Type Of Structure : RCC Framed Structure
 Type Of Footing : No Data Available A. Salient Features
 Repair History/Any : Errection of Shed on
 Alterations Terrace  Year of Construction : 1990
 Date of Inspection : November 2023
 Visual Observations  Type Of Structure : RCC Framed Structure
 Type Of Footing : No Data Available
 Minor to Major cracks observed in Columns, beams,  Number Of Flats : 28
slabs & walls  Number Of Shops : 10
 Minor cracks are observed on wall in common area.  Repair History/Any : No Data Available
 Plumbing and Drain lines are having Heavy Leakages &  Alterations
seepages
 At some places reinforcement was exposed and B. Visual Observations
corroded.
 Cracks are observed & stagnant water is observed  Minor to Major cracks observed in Columns, beams,
which is unhygienic & cause further structural damage slabs & walls
 Vegetation was observed  Plumbing and Drain lines are having Heavy Leakages &
seepages
 Non-Destructive Test:  Cracks are observed on column, beam & Staircase waist
slab exhibited delamination over 30%
 Rebound Hammer Test  Reinforcement was exposed and heavily Corroded at
Some Places.
 The Rebound numbers measured are less than 15 MPA  In few flats loft slab are been seen sagging
 Cost of test is high.  Vegetation was observed

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Volume 9, Issue 5, May – 2024 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24MAY789

C. Non-Destructive Test: appreciation to everyone who contributed to the completion

of this project. Your support has been so valuable, and I am
 Rebound Hammer Test grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such
talented, skilled and dedicated individuals.
 The rebound numbers measured on concrete surface
 Solution of problem is not life time. REFERENCES
 Cost of test is high. And it’s not feasible for this case
study. [1]. Vivek Kumar Yadav “Repairs And Rehabilitation of
R.C.C. Structures by Fiber Reinforced Plastic- A
 Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity Test Review”
[2]. Ankur Gupta “‘A Case Study’ On Repair
 It’s not feasible, Hence aborted Rehabilitation & Retrofitting of RC Framed
Structure” International Journal of Innovative
 Carbonation Test Research in Science, Engineering and Technology
(A High Impact Factor, Monthly, Peer Reviewed
 Carbonation has taken place at the reinforcement level. Journal) Visit: www.ijirset.com Vol. 6, Issue 11,
 Solution of problem is not life time. November 2017
[3]. Manish Kumar “Structural Rehabilitation,
 Cost of test is high and it’s not feasible for this case
study. Retrofitting and Strengthening of Reinforced
Concrete Structures” World Academy of Science,
 Core Sampling and Testing Engineering and Technology International Journal
of Civil, Environmental, Structural, Construction
and Architectural Engineering Vol:10, No:1, 2016
 It’s not feasible for this case study.
[4]. P.V.BHOSALE1, SUMANT KULKARNI2,
“Repairs And Rehabilitation Of Building In
This Building was Concluded to be Demolished.
Construction Industry” 2019 JETIR June 2019,
Volume 6, Issue 6
VI. CONCLUSION
[5]. A Book on “Building Repairs And Maintenance”
Dr. S.Thirugnanasambandam
The rehabilitation of structures involves the
[6]. Manish Kumar (2016), “Structural Rehabilitation,
application of advanced technology, sophisticated skills,
Retrofitting And Strengthening of Reinforced
and intricate calculations. The Structural repairs include
Concrete Structures” International Journal of Civil,
polymer treatment to columns & beams, re-casting of slabs,
Environmental, Structural, Construction and
Epoxy grouting, Waterproofing, strengthening of Overhead
Architectural Engineering Vol: 10, No: 1.
water tank, plastering etc. It is a highly responsible task
[7]. Rohit Newale” Structural Audit, Repair and
aimed at preventing the Major failure of RCC structures
Rehabilitation of Building” International Journal of
due to deterioration. Rehabilitation becomes imperative for
Innovative Research in Science, Engineering and
old buildings displaying symptoms of decay, playing a
Technology (An ISO 3297: 2007 Certified
crucial role in safeguarding human lives from potential
Organization) Website: www.ijirset.com Vol. 6,
structural failures. It meticulously reviews existing
Issue 3, March 2017
problems and their reported solutions. Through a thorough
[8]. J. Bhattacharjee “Repair, Rehabilitation
examination, an effective solution for the identified issues
&Retrofitting Of RCC for Sustainable Development
is formulated, taking into account a careful Measures which
with Case Studies” Civil Engineering and Urban
are economical, expected life, and adaptability of the
Planning: An International Journal (CiVEJ) Vol.3,
solutions. The paper extends its utility to individuals with
No.2, June 2016.
the objective of undertaking the repair and rehabilitation of
[9]. Sachin Rambhau Shelke “Structural Health
civil structures, offering valuable insights and guidance in
Monitoring and Audit, Repair and Rehabilitation of
this specialized field.
Building in Construction Industry” International
Journal of Recent Research in Science, Engineering
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
and Technology Vol. 4, Issue 3, March 2018
[10]. Vilcekova S., Sedlakova A., Kapalo P., Culakova
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to
M., Burdova E. K., Geletka V. Analysis of
Professors for Guidance and Support. I am also deeply
environmental and Social Aspects in Low Energy
thankful to my colleagues at my office for their unwavering
House – case study, 13th SGEM Geo-Conference,
support and guidance. Their expertise and insights
ISSN 1314-2704, June 16-22, 2013, 555 - 562 pp.
significantly enhanced the quality of Research. Special
The authors
thanks are extended to Vijay Gurav & Associates for
Providing Helpful Data. They played a pivotal role in the
success of project. Their collaboration and commitment
were instrumental in achievements. I extend my sincere

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