Repair and Rehabilitation of Concrete Structures

The purpose of the course is to provide students with a fundamental and practical understanding on concrete repair technology, repair materials, and repair philosophies.
A large number of reinforced concrete (RC) structures are deteriorating, often prematurely, and need remedial measures to reinstate their safety and/or serviceability. Consequently, the need for repair and protection has grown considerably in recent years. While costs associated with repair of deteriorating concrete structures can be substantial, costs resulting from poorly designed or executed repairs may be even higher. The technical and economical success of repair projects depends on a range of factors, including a proper condition assessment of the structure, design and execution of remedial measures, and design and implementation of maintenance strategies.

Repair methods need to be designed with consideration for the anticipated or desired remaining service life of the structure. A distinction must be made between repairs intended to stop deterioration fully and those merely aimed at slowing down deterioration processes for a limited period of time. During the course relevant repair methods for damaged concrete structures are discussed, focussing on design methods, application principles and limitations. The scope of relevant repair methods includes the application of penetrating corrosion inhibitors and surface coatings, temporary electrochemical techniques, cathodic protection systems, bonded overlays (patch repairs), and crack injection. By way of introduction (over the first day), the course further addresses deterioration mechanisms, condition assessment principles, non-destructive testing of concrete structures, and standards for concrete repair.