Durability problem of RC structures in Tuzla industrial zone — Two case studies

Within the context of two case studies of complex industrial structures located in an aggressive environment, the issue of durability of reinforced concrete (RC) has been considered. Recommendations and guidelines of the International Association as well as some code provisions with regard to durability of RC structures were analyzed. Structures of the cooling tower (both of the shell and sprinkler) and the structure of Salt factory are presented briefly. The results of visual inspection of combined non-destructive and destructive investigation methodology of the concrete’s physical and mechanical properties as well as chemical measurements are presented. Parameters of the structures’ condition rating according to CEB (BI 243:1998) and a parameter recently introduced in fib (TG 5.3:2008) performance index are analyzed. These evaluations are valuable for condition assessment and taking decision about the level of repair of the heavily corroded structure. Conclusions are drawn up due to the analysis of the obtained results and on comparative analyses, and they relate directly to the state of the art system in this field. Clear recommendations in regard to RC structure durability analysis are considered by means of verification the limit state of depassivation and the reinforcement corrosion induced by chloride ingress.