Structural Integrity Assessment of an Uncompleted Reinforced Concrete Structure in Maiduguri, Nigeria

Abstract

Structural integrity assessment of an existing structure/building was carried out to determine its reliability to addition further load while fulfilling its intended function. From the assessment result, the building had shown a yielded slab, probably due to observable deterioration of the building elements (Block D). Further assessment of this study’s result reveals the major cause for that concern, and it is due to low slab strength value (NDT <20N/mm2). Additionally, the structural deterioration which has occurred is as a direct result of the neglect and inability to appropriately drain rain water on the slab from the building. Therefore, this study’s result indicates that, the components (Block D) does not have adequate resistance to cater for future loads, because of the demonstrated structural failures associated with the building(slab) in question. The masonry walls of the building’s non-structural components were also observed to be having some extent of cracks and other distress. It is therefore recommended that reconstruction of the distressed area be carried out. Study further suggest combination of tests, instead of performing just one type of test, provide more suitable results to confidently accept or reject the structure as a whole or its component for future use.