Analysis of concrete deterioration in a marine concrete structure : the Malta freeport breakwater

Abstract

The expenses for repair, maintenance and remediation of existing marine structures are significantly high. A large proportion of these expenses are due to problems related to a lacking durability of the structure. Routine inspections have to be carried out on a regular basis in which damaged areas are identified and subsequently repaired. Environmental actions, material properties and execution during construction are the three principal factors that influence the service life of a concrete structure. The description of the environmental actions includes an analysis of the marine environment and water parameters monitored in three sessions. Deterioration of concrete is classified in three categories: reinforcement corrosion, chemical and physical deterioration. The objective of this dissertation is to provide a tool for identifying these deleterious mechanisms and developing remedial techniques which preserve the life of the marine structure. A study of the response of concrete structures exposed to marine environments is presented. Preliminary studies include surveys of five marine structures and the actual analysis is focused on a detailed examination of the Malta Freeport Breakwater located in the southern part of the Island at the mouth of Marsaxlokk Harbour.