Welcome and Evaluation Techniques for Structures Undergoing Extreme Environments


Two projects will be explored in this presentation. The first is a concrete structure which for 20 years was exposed to extreme heat. The second is a structure which was exposed to extreme vibrations. Both these structures were integral parts of manufacturing processes and required limited down time to repair. The questions needing to be answered were: what is the condition of the existing concrete and what are the repair options for these structures. We turned to non-destructive techniques to evaluate these structures. Non-destructive techniques can provide insight into structures when accompanied by experienced engineers and petrographic analysis. Repair options were provided at the end of our evaluation leading to reduced down time and well-planned repairs. 

Learning Objectives:

  1. How to use non-destructive techniques to evaluate concrete exposed to extreme conditions
  2. How to use petrographic analysis to evaluate concretes exposed to extreme environments
  3. Options for repair in these structures
  4. Need to understand manufacturing needs and timeline