The need to strengthen structures often arises during the operation of buildings and structures, when they are subject to additional loads not provided for by the original design, or when materials and structural elements wear out.
Strengthening of building structures is also required when the functional purpose of the building changes, which entails new requirements for its reliability and safety. In addition, the restoration and strengthening of building structures may be caused by the need to eliminate defects and damage after emergency situations, such as earthquakes or man-made disasters.
The main methods and principles of strengthening include a number of technologies aimed at increasing the strength and stability of building structures. Among them:
- strengthening with additional elements, such as beams and columns;
- using reinforced concrete shells or metal frames to increase the load-bearing capacity;
- using modern composite materials, such as carbon fiber, to wrap and strengthen structures;
- injecting special solutions or resins into cracks and voids to restore the integrity of elements.
Analysis of the condition and diagnostics of structures before strengthening are critical stages that determine the success of the entire process. Before starting to strengthen building structures, it is necessary to conduct a thorough survey of the building to identify all possible deficiencies and assess the degree of their impact on the overall stability of the structure. This includes studying the design documentation, visual inspection, the use of non-destructive testing methods such as ultrasonic scanning or X-ray tomography, as well as laboratory testing of material samples. Only after obtaining a complete picture of the condition of the structures can a rational and effective plan for their strengthening be developed.