FORENSIC ASSESSMENT OF THE COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF INSTITUTIONAL BUILDING WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN AS CASE STUDY
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Abstract
This research was conducted to assess the structural integrity and performance of selected iconic buildings within the University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria. The
primary aim of the study was to evaluate the current condition of these buildings in terms of their structural soundness, safety, and suitability for continued use. The study was driven by the growing need to ensure the long-term reliability and sustainability of public structures within tertiary institutions. The methodology adopted involved non-destructive testing (NDT) using the rebound hammer technique conducted on thirty-eight (38) structural elements, including beams and columns, across the selected buildings. For each element, rebound numbers were taken on both the top and bottom faces, yielding a total of seventy-six (76) test points. Statistical analysis was performed on the rebound data to compute the mean, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation (COV), from which estimated compressive strengths were derived. These results were then interpreted in accordance with ASTM C805 and BS EN 12504-2 standards to assess the quality and uniformity of the concrete across the sampled elements. The results revealed that the rebound numbers ranged between 40 and 52, corresponding to compressive strengths of approximately 52.6–61.4 N/mm². The mean rebound value was 48.21 with a standard deviation of 2.19, while the mean compressive strength was 57.86 N/mm² with a standard deviation of 2.38 N/mm², both yielding COVs below 5%. According to BS 1881 classification, these results indicate excellent concrete quality. The variation between readings across different members was minimal, confirming uniformity in construction and adequate material quality. Minor surface defects were observed but did not significantly affect the overall strength or stability of the structures. The study concluded that the assessed buildings remain structurally sound and safe for continued use, though regular monitoring and preventive maintenance are recommended to prevent progressive deterioration
primary aim of the study was to evaluate the current condition of these buildings in terms of their structural soundness, safety, and suitability for continued use. The study was driven by the growing need to ensure the long-term reliability and sustainability of public structures within tertiary institutions. The methodology adopted involved non-destructive testing (NDT) using the rebound hammer technique conducted on thirty-eight (38) structural elements, including beams and columns, across the selected buildings. For each element, rebound numbers were taken on both the top and bottom faces, yielding a total of seventy-six (76) test points. Statistical analysis was performed on the rebound data to compute the mean, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation (COV), from which estimated compressive strengths were derived. These results were then interpreted in accordance with ASTM C805 and BS EN 12504-2 standards to assess the quality and uniformity of the concrete across the sampled elements. The results revealed that the rebound numbers ranged between 40 and 52, corresponding to compressive strengths of approximately 52.6–61.4 N/mm². The mean rebound value was 48.21 with a standard deviation of 2.19, while the mean compressive strength was 57.86 N/mm² with a standard deviation of 2.38 N/mm², both yielding COVs below 5%. According to BS 1881 classification, these results indicate excellent concrete quality. The variation between readings across different members was minimal, confirming uniformity in construction and adequate material quality. Minor surface defects were observed but did not significantly affect the overall strength or stability of the structures. The study concluded that the assessed buildings remain structurally sound and safe for continued use, though regular monitoring and preventive maintenance are recommended to prevent progressive deterioration
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