Course Catalogue.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Diagnose deterioration mechanisms in concrete structures using visual and advanced testing methods
• Select and interpret appropriate inspection and non‑destructive testing techniques to support sound engineering judgment
• Assess structural condition, durability, and remaining service life to inform repair, rehabilitation, or replacement decisions
• Develop practical, cost‑effective concrete repair and rehabilitation strategies aligned with applicable standards
• Evaluate repair materials and techniques to improve long‑term performance and durability of concrete structures

Description

Concrete structures play a critical role in the built environment, yet many are affected by deterioration mechanisms that are not always visible or well understood. Decisions related to inspection, rehabilitation, or replacement often must be made with incomplete information, time constraints, and competing technical and economic considerations. Relying solely on visual inspection or prescriptive solutions can result in ineffective repairs, increased risk, or premature failure.

This course provides a structured, practical approach to evaluating existing concrete structures, identifying the underlying causes of deterioration, and selecting appropriate inspection, testing, and repair strategies. You will examine common degradation mechanisms such as corrosion, environmental attack, cracking, and material incompatibility, and learn how these issues influence durability, safety, and lifecycle performance.

Through real‑world case studies, proven methodologies, and current industry practices, you will develop the capability to assess condition and risk, interpret test data, and make informed decisions regarding concrete repair and rehabilitation. The course emphasizes practical application, helping you determine when repair is appropriate, how to optimize restoration strategies, and when replacement can be avoided.

Who Should Attend

This course is designed for:

• Engineers and engineering technologists involved in the design, inspection, or rehabilitation of concrete structures
• Structural, construction, and consulting professionals responsible for condition assessment and repair recommendations
• Owners, facility managers, and building managers overseeing concrete infrastructure
• Inspectors, technicians, and professionals involved in testing, monitoring, and maintenance programs
• Professionals seeking to strengthen their ability to evaluate concrete performance and make informed repair decisions

Course Syllabus

Day I

Why Concrete Deteriorates Part 1

• Introduction: cement and concrete
• Causes of concrete deterioration
• Corrosion of embedded reinforcement
• Frost action
• Examples and case studies

Why Concrete Deteriorates Part 2

• Sulphate attack
• Alkali-aggregate reaction
• Examples and case studies

Why Concrete Deteriorates Part 3

• Dimensional stability (shrinkage, creep, thermal effects)
• Loads, workmanship, and other causes
• Examples and case studies

Monitoring and Inspection

• Visual inspection
• Reading cracks
• Non-destructive testing methods: strength methods, impact echo and other ultrasonic techniques, radar, infra-red, non-destructive methods for corrosion inspection, surface assessment methods
• Guide for making a condition survey
• Routine monitoring
• The investigation following the identification of the need for preventive action

Day II

Review of Day I and Preview of Day II

Concrete Repair: Strategy and Economics

• Surface preparation methods
• Surface repair techniques
• Repair strategies
• Compatibility between substrate and repair material
• Replacing corroded bars
• Pinpointing and repairing a structural deficiency

Epoxy Injection

• Causes and evaluation of cracks
• Technique and procedure
• Repairing cracks
• Case studies

Other Materials for Concrete Repair

• Polymer-modified concrete
• Fibre-reinforced concrete and shotcrete
• Elastomeric coatings
• Penetrating and film-forming sealers
• Moisture protection systems for joints

Repair Using Fibre-Reinforced Polymers (FRP)

• Surface Preparation
• Repair materials
• Strengthening for axial load
• Strengthening for flexural load
• Strengthening for shear load
• Case studies and design guidelines

Case Studies

• Reinforced concrete and precast, pre-stressed parking garages: condition evaluation, load capacity evaluation, interpretation and rehabilitation, maintenance and restoration within budget

Adjournment

Day III

Review of Days I and II and Preview of Day III

Case Studies

• Bridge decks
• Exterior Walls
• Balconies
• Fire Damage
• Foundations

Forensic Structural Engineering

• Implications of structural damage and failure
• Litigation issues
• Construction claims and the role of the engineer

Presentation and Interpretation of Condition Survey Reports

• Responsibilities
• Checklist of inspection
• Inspection planning
• Documentation
• Field observations and condition survey
• Sampling and material testing
• Evaluation
• Final report

Open Forum: Questions and Answers, Feedback on Achievement of Learning Outcomes

Concluding Remarks and Final Adjournment