Polymeric Materials for Repair of Distressed Concrete Structures

Abstract

The concrete repair is not given its due the weightage in civil engineering considering the sustainability issues and environment impact factor that it produces in restoring and conserving the old structures. To build the similar new structure, there is lot of embedded energy involved for demolishing and rebuilding the structure. Unless otherwise the structure is unsafe, the building or structure should be restored and should not be given permission for redevelopment. Before repairing any cracks in concrete structures, it needs to be diagnosed properly. Based on the diagnosis, compatible repair materials need to be selected for the repair. There are different types of repair materials and methodologies available out of which suitable one needs to be selected. The structural audit with non-destructive test (NDT) helps to diagnose the problems. There are different kinds of repair materials and methods available, which need to be specified based on the requirement. In most cases of repair, the failure takes place since the issues of compatibility of repair material are not considered during material selection. Also, during design and execution of a repair project, the planning and surface preparation is not done properly for which repair of same surface continues again and again. The present paper discusses the various types of polymeric materials and methodologies used for repair of distressed concrete structures for a durable concrete repair system.