Project Overview

CDE Engineering Services was appointed by Al Fanar General Contracting LLC to carry out a detailed condition assessment and remaining service life study of Building No. 54 located within Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD), ICAD I. The objective of the project was to evaluate the current condition of the reinforced concrete structure, assess its durability performance under existing environmental exposure, and determine its expected remaining service life.

The study was undertaken as part of the client’s broader objective to preserve asset value, optimize maintenance planning, and ensure continued safe operation of the facility.

Client

Al Fanar General Contracting LLC

Location

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Client Challenge

The client required a clear understanding of the structural condition and durability performance of the building, particularly in relation to long-term serviceability and exposure to environmental factors. There was a need to identify any ongoing material degradation, assess risks associated with corrosion and deterioration, and define appropriate maintenance and repair strategies to extend the structure’s operational life.

Scope of Work

Our Approach

CDE carried out a systematic investigation combining field inspection, testing, and engineering evaluation.

The structure was examined through detailed visual inspections along with advanced testing techniques including GPR scanning, inspection openings, and core sampling to determine in-situ material properties. The evaluation focused on identifying localized deterioration, understanding the mechanisms affecting durability, and assessing environmental impacts such as moisture ingress and chloride exposure.

The assessment was primarily material-based, concentrating on durability performance rather than a full structural analysis. Observations were correlated with testing data to establish the overall condition of the structure and identify areas requiring intervention.

Key Findings

The structural elements were generally found to be in serviceable condition with no evidence of major structural distress or settlement.

However, localized deterioration was observed, particularly on external faces of columns and ground beams near grade level. This deterioration was primarily attributed to chloride-induced corrosion caused by moisture ingress and environmental exposure.

Cracking observed in roof beams, especially at slab-beam junctions, indicated areas that may require further structural investigation.

The testing results confirmed that while the structure retains adequate performance, durability-related issues need to be addressed to prevent long-term degradation.

Solutions & Recommendations

CDE recommended targeted repair and protection measures to address localized deterioration and enhance long-term durability.

These included removal of delaminated concrete, reinstatement with appropriate repair materials, application of protective coatings, and improvement of waterproofing systems to prevent further moisture ingress.

Further structural investigation was recommended for roof beam cracks to determine if strengthening measures are required.

With proper implementation of the recommended repairs and maintenance strategies, the structure is expected to achieve its intended service life without compromising safety or functionality.

Outcome

The study provided the client with a clear and data-driven understanding of the building’s current condition and future performance.

By identifying the root causes of deterioration and recommending targeted interventions, CDE enabled the client to make informed decisions regarding maintenance planning and asset management. The proposed measures ensure improved durability, reduced long-term risks, and sustained structural performance.

Key Services Delivered