Scanning Recycled Concrete?

Why is scanning becoming more important?

This newly constructed bridge structure is made from recycled concrete so scanning these assets is a massive part of our work.

This type is becoming increasingly popular as the earths sources diminish but how safe is it and why is scanning recycled concrete important?

Some of the challenges of using recycled concrete can be the water absorption of the recycled materials.

The workability on this type of concrete is very limited.

What are the challenges and issues?

Because of these challenges, recycled concrete doesn’t vibrate and flow like traditional concrete.  This can result in honeycombing, voids, and an unsightly surface finish.

This bridge structure has been correctly vibrated, with a correct recycled concrete mix.

There are issues though with voids and honeycombing, occuring within the concrete structure.

The way to rectify the situation is to scan the bridge to identify the defects, the hidden voids and honeycombing within the structure.

How Do Structural Repairs fix the issues?

Once these areas have been identified, the correct remedial solution can be undertaken.

Firstly we will drill in a steel injection packers to the areas with voids and inject a resin under high pressure into the concrete structure. This will fill all the voids, air pockets, and honeycombing.

The bridge will then be re-scanned using ultrasound to ensure that all the voids have been filled and it is a solid structure.

By undertaking concrete scanning of structures like this,  a birth certificate can effectively be issued.

Concrete can also deteriorate because of poor workmanship, or the reinforcement accidentally moving during the pour.

Structural Repairs concrete scanning can identify these issues allowing them to be addressed in the construction stage.

Scanning Recycled Concrete?

If you have any concerns about the concrete used in your structures or assets please contact the Structural Repairs Team.