Structural Repair to Conserve Langkawi's Main Tourist Attraction: Practical Approach

Abstract

Direct exposure to marine environment causes accelerated corrosion process of all reinforced concrete structures, consequently, causes cracks, deterioration and overall reduction in the sstructural integrity. The aim of this paper is to study the deterioration and technique of repair work at Eagle Square as a landmark of Langkawi Island. Most of the structural problems which occurred at the splash zone were spalling and delamination on beam, slab and pile cap. Material testing was carried out at selected locations to ob tain detailed information relating to the extent and causes of deterioration of the structure. The result showed that the carbonation depth was smaller than concrete cover and the amount of chloride ions was 0.23% by mass of cement and 50% of the splash zone was having 90% probability of corrosion. After obtaining the necessary data, the study directed towards deciding the remedial work. The Eagle Square structure members were successfully repaired in eight (8) months with proper works planning and repair technique appropriate to the damages.