Estudio de Patología Estructural apartaestudios San Francisco

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to conduct a comprehensive diagnosis of the pathologies in the “Apartaestudios San Francisco” building in Ibagué, which is nearly five years old and unfinished. Thorough visual inspections will be carried out to identify surface damage, complemented by destructive core extraction tests to assess the strength of the concrete, as well as non-destructive tests such as sclerometry to estimate the surface properties of the material. The process was carried out in accordance with applicable technical standards, including NSR-10, NTC, and ASTM, adapting criteria and parameters to the characteristics and level of importance of the patient, understood as the building being evaluated, in accordance with the current Colombian regulatory framework. The results show severe deterioration in structural elements, where persistent moisture, cracks, corrosion of exposed steel, and chemical degradation of concrete have compromised integrity and durability. The tests revealed concrete strengths between 10 and 15 MPa, lower than the design strength of 17.5 MPa, failing to meet requirements. Insufficient sections were detected in columns, sometimes with overloads above regulatory limits, and the slabs show critical damage that affects their stability. Repair techniques such as epoxy resin injection and carbon fiber confinement were evaluated but ruled out due to the severity of the damage, costs, and complexity. It was concluded that total demolition is the safest and most technically sound option, ensuring the safety of occupants and enabling reconstruction in accordance with current seismic standards, prioritizing durability and safety in the seismic zone of Ibagué.