| Grouting of
Cracks for Structural Strengthening
As in medicine,
a good diagnosis is a must for a successful cure.
Initial investigation does not
reveal all the areas of defective concrete. These investigations
are done for preparing the specifications and to get an
overall extent of the damage to the structure. Investigating
the cause of the distress in concrete is necessary in order
to recommend an appropriate repair material and strategy.
Only an experienced eye can
detect a typical problem and lead to the solution for the
same.
Also as in medicine, a variety of repair materials are available
and each has a specific use. Use of an appropriate material
and technique can not only produce savings on the cost of
repair, but also can ensure a durable repair.
A non-structural repair will not increase the load carrying
capacity of the member nor of the structure.
Significance of Unattended
Cracks:
• Leads to leakage
• Ingress of Moisture leading to carbonation
• Ingress of corrosive chemicals
• Ingress of Chlorides leading to corrosion of reinforcement
inside
Some of the important
needs for a satisfactory repair should be :
• All the defective concrete
and the rust on reinforcement should be removed.
• All hollow & weak areas should be hammer tested and
marked on surface, so that they will not be missed during
repair execution work.
• Old and new concrete should have a good bond by using
a suitable bonding agent.
Materials and Methods
for treating cracks:
For sealing the cracks between
brickwork and column or beams, which is a common problem
in buildings, chip off the plaster in the region and fix
a galvanized expanded (diamond shaped) mesh by nails to
cover the joint with mesh 3” on either side. Then replaster.
Some cracks are caused
by movement in the structure.
Repairing such cracks with epoxy could cause reoccurrence
of a crack in the future at a nearby location.
Use of an appropriate flexible
sealant such as silicone or polysulfide or acrylic to produce
savings on the cost of repair and ensure a durable repair.
Grouting of
Cracks for Structural Strengthening
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