Concrete structures, especially bridges, are the backbone of modern infrastructure. They face numerous challenges, one of which is Thaumasite formation. A critical incident involving Thaumasite attack on concrete bridge foundations made it necessary for our Director Phil Wilson to produce an expert witness report and a Ministerial briefing for Parliamentary Questions (PQ). This rare but significant event has also prompted a revision to the BRE National Guidance on sulphates.
What is Thaumasite?
Thaumasite is a mineral that can form in concrete under specific conditions, primarily in cold and wet environments where sulphate is present in the ground requiring expert geotechnical knowledge and assessment by specialist soil testing. The reaction leading to Thaumasite formation can cause severe degradation of concrete, transforming it into a friable, non-cohesive material. This degradation can compromise the structural integrity of concrete bridges, posing safety risks and necessitating costly repairs.
The revised guidance emphasises the importance of thorough environmental assessments, appropriate material selection, and regular monitoring of at-risk structures. By addressing these factors, the industry can mitigate the risks associated with Thaumasite and enhance the resilience of concrete infrastructure.
Why an expert witness report is crucial
The expert witness report that we produced serves as a crucial reminder of the complexities involved in maintaining our infrastructure and the need for continual advancement in engineering practices. Through proactive measures and updated guidelines, we can better safeguard our critical structures against even the rarest of threats.
For more information on Geotechnical Expert Witness Reports, please contact us.