Estudio patológico de la estructura en concreto reforzado del Colegio De la Santísima Trinidad - Barrio Getsemaní - Cartagena de Indias.

Abstract

This project entails the pathological study of the "Colegio de la Santísima Trinidad" building, located at Carrera 10 with Calle 25, next to the church and parish house of the same name, in the Getsemaní neighborhood of Cartagena de Indias. The structure is approximately 70 years old, with a built area of 1221.07 m2 distributed over two floors. The architectural layout of the second floor matches that of the first floor, and it features reinforced concrete structural elements forming a frame system. Its columns, beams, and floor slabs exhibit visible damage, including cracks and fissures (mechanical), oxidation and corrosion of the reinforcing steel (chemical), and partial spalling of finishes and coatings, associated with aging, lack of maintenance, and constant exposure to ambient moisture (physical). To study the symptoms, the architectural survey provided by the owner was verified, and a visual inspection was conducted, along with photographic documentation and the creation of condition assessment forms for the affected structural elements. To determine the causes of these pathologies, non-destructive tests (rebound hammer, ASTM C805) and destructive tests were performed, including core extraction (ASTM C42), with results exceeding 20 MPa. A carbonation test was conducted by applying a phenolphthalein solution to visually detect its depth, revealing unfavorable values that reach the reinforcement level. The reinforcement ratio of the structural elements was determined using a Ferroscan. Based on the test results, an analysis of the recorded and categorized damages was carried out, associating them with a main pathology, the advanced deterioration of the concrete in the first-floor columns. An intervention alternative was determined following the guidelines of ACI 318 and NSR-10 standards, and the schedule and budget for the studies were developed.