In English | Issue 4/2021

Concrete studies of new structures require cross-disciplinary knowledge

Concrete studies of new structures require cross-disciplinary knowledge
The floor of the picture is not related to the examples presented in the article.

Professional concrete studies provide an irreplaceable tool for the quality assurance of new concrete structures as well as for problem solving. Correctly targeted and implemented sampling, well specified laboratory analyses and other clarifications as well as conclusions drawn based on cross-disciplinary evaluation help avoid conflicts between different parties in construction when suspicions arise about the quality of structures.

Typical topics of concrete studies of new structures include different problems related to floors, suspected deficiencies in strength or durability properties, undesirable cracking of structures as well as unsatisfactory surface quality. Where clear damage occurs in the structure, studies are typically started with an analysis of material properties.

The studies of new concrete structures consist of a multitude of aspects where the different crumbs of information need to be combined into a consistent whole while identifying their significance to structural damage.

For complete concrete structures, typical quality assurance studies also include measurements of the concrete cover for reinforcement as well as various measurements related to surface quality, such as e.g., straightness.

Correct studies facilitate the selection of measures to ensure the suitability and acceptability of the structure for its intended application despite errors made in relation to design, construction or materials.

Read the entire article in Finnish and see the images >>