Vol. 2010 No. 1 (2010)
Structural Integrity Assessment of Aging Infrastructure in Uganda
Abstract
Ugandan infrastructure, including bridges and buildings, is aging at an accelerated rate due to its construction in the mid-20th century. A combination of ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) and magnetic particle inspection (MPI) was employed for assessing the concrete quality and identifying cracks, respectively. Data from UPV measurements were analysed using a linear regression model to predict crack propagation rate. The analysis revealed an average crack growth rate of 0.5 mm per year in reinforced concrete structures, with significant variability influenced by environmental factors such as temperature and humidity. The findings provide valuable insights into the maintenance needs of Ugandan infrastructure and suggest that targeted repairs should be scheduled based on predicted crack progression. Ugandan authorities are advised to implement regular monitoring programmes and consider structural reinforcements in high-risk areas where cracks have been identified. Structural Integrity, Aging Infrastructure, Non-Destructive Testing, Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity, Magnetic Particle Inspection The maintenance outcome was modelled as $Y_{it}=\beta_0+\beta_1X_{it}+u_i+\varepsilon_{it}$, with robustness checked using heteroskedasticity-consistent errors.
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