Case
Studies

SRG Asset Care were engaged by Veolia to conduct a comprehensive condition assessment of concrete tanks at their Bundamba and Gibson plants in Brisbane, QLD. The site inspection included structural inspection, carrying out non-intrusive tests, and obtaining samples for detailed laboratory testing. 

A detailed visual inspection was performed to identify the visible risks evident in each of the structures. The tanks have evidence of a series of cracks formed in their wall sections. The floor of the tanks did not show any signs of structural cracking. The roof of consisted of precast panels and a topping overlay concrete. The concrete overlay of the roof showed significant cracking along the beam supporting the roof panels. Cracks were also observed on the edge beams on top of the wall and around some pipe openings.

Structural and durability assessments were performed to investigate the extent of the problem, the root cause of the issue, and to specify an appropriate scope for remedial actions. In addition, a civil survey of the tank floors was performed to establish if there has been any settlement or relative movement of the tank floors’ sections. 

A series of concrete tests were performed on the structures. The strength of concrete, the thickness of the concrete cover, and the layout of rebars embedded in concrete were determined. The loss of concrete alkalinity, ingress of chloride and sulfate in different locations of tanks, and the soundness of the concrete matrix were also determined.