22-09-2014, 02:51 PM
Abstracts: Concrete is one of our most common building materials and is used both for buildings, bridges and other heavy structures. Typically, concrete structures are very durable, but sometimes they need to be strengthened. The reason may be cracking due to environmental effects that a bridge is to be used for heavier traffic, new building codes, or damage resulting from earthquakes. Concrete is a material that can withstand compressive loads very well but is sensitive to tensile forces. Therefore, concrete structures are typically reinforced by casting in steel bars in areas where tension can arise. This cannot be done afterwards, and one strengthening method, is therefore to glue reinforcement on the exterior of the structure in the areas exposed to tension. Since considerable time, causes of distress is drawing attention of Civil Engineers, which has made certain advancements in the field of protection, repair, and rehabilitation, strengthening and retrofitting of existing structures. Factors necessary for durability of structures are not given due importance during construction or maintenance period which leads to defects. Our project will include the study of main reasons of distress, causes of reduction in strength of structures and remedial measures.