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Sponsored by ASCE's Construction Institute and ASCE Continuing Education

INSTRUCTOR: D. Matthew Stuart, P.E., S.E., P.Eng., F.ASCE, F.SEI, SECB

Purpose and Background

This webinar includes a discussion of the assessment and evaluation methods and tool associated with structural forensic investigations. It concentrates on a discussion of the investigative methods and tools associated with the determination of the load carrying capacity of a structure and the assessment of deteriorated concrete and steel structures. This webinar discusses the evaluation methods of structural failure investigations and the tools associated with these same branches of forensic engineering.

Primary DiscussionTopics

• Definition, types of forensic investigations and the typical clients associated with each
• Load carrying capacity investigations concentrating on projects in which no existing structural drawings are available, and buildings constructed with vintage structural systems
• Investigations associated with deteriorated concrete and steel structures

Learning Outcomes

• Identify three methods of determining the capacity of an internally reinforced structure
• Gain an understanding of the two primary methods of strengthening an existing structure for increased load carrying capacity
• Understand how to identify several types of vintage structural systems that can still be encountered as a part of an investigation
• Identify the five critical steps associated with a successful investigation of a deteriorated concrete structure
• Identify five methods of onsite condition assessment of a deteriorated concrete structure
• Gain and understanding of the purpose and capabilities of a petrographic analysis of deteriorated concrete
• Identify five types of metal corrosion that can be visually identified
• Learn an additional five types of metal corrosion that require supplementary means of identification
• Identify three types of environmental metal cracking that can only be identified using a microscope

Webinar Benefits

• Understand the difference between the three primary types of structural forensic investigations and the typical clients associated with each
• Understand the difference between interpreting X-Ray images and photographic images
• Learn about the limitations of load testing and load tables when determining the load carrying capacity of a structure
• Understand the importance of identifying the type and name of a vintage structural system
• Learn the importance of a petrographic analysis in determining the source of deterioration of a concrete structure
• Become familiar with the difference between lamellar corrosion of metals and pack rust