Post-Disaster Structural Performance Evaluation of Reinforced Concrete Buildings Using Non-Destructive Testing Methods

Abstract

Natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and fires can significantly compromise the structural integrity and safety of reinforced concrete (RC) buildings, necessitating rapid and reliable post-disaster evaluation to support decision-making regarding repair, strengthening, or continued use. This study aims to assess the structural performance of an RC building after a disaster using non-destructive testing (NDT) methods. A quantitative descriptive approach was employed on a four-story RC building affected by seismic loading. The methodology integrated visual inspection with three primary NDT techniques: rebound hammer testing to estimate surface compressive strength, Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV) testing to evaluate internal concrete quality and homogeneity, and covermeter testing to determine reinforcement positioning and concrete cover thickness. The results indicate varying levels of structural damage, with the most critical deterioration observed in ground-floor columns, including moderate cracking, reduced compressive strength, and insufficient concrete cover. Overall, the findings reveal a 12–25% reduction in concrete quality compared to the original design strength. Despite these deficiencies, the building remains conditionally serviceable, provided that appropriate strengthening and repair measures, such as structural reinforcement, crack injection, and continuous monitoring are implemented. The study concludes that the integration of multiple NDT methods offers an effective, rapid, and non-invasive approach for post-disaster structural evaluation, providing a reliable technical basis for ensuring safety and supporting sustainable infrastructure management in disaster-prone areas.