STRUCTURAL ASSESSMENT AND REHABILITATION OF THE OFFICE BUILDING IN LIBREVILLE

AUTHOR(S) / АУТОР(И): Dejan Vasović , Ruža Okrajnov-Bajić, Jefto Terzović, Bratislav Ilić , Darko Pavićević 

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.46793/SGIS26e.216V

ABSTRACT / САЖЕТАК:

This paper presents the assessment and reconstruction methods developed and adapted for the strengthening of the reinforced concrete office building structure in Libreville, Republic of Gabon. The office building reinforced concrete frame structure consists of a ground floor and eight upper floors (G+8). Upon completion of the construction, immediately prior to occupancy and during the furnishing phase, cracks appeared in the load-bearing elements of the structure – specifically in the beams and columns. Fearing catastrophic consequences and potential structural collapse, the client’s consultants recommended the total demolition of the building. However, the client opted for a structural expert assessment before making a final decision.

The assessment revealed that the building was originally designed as a G+3 structure. During construction, the height was increased to G+8 without any documented changes of the original structural design. Structural assessment and analyses confirmed that the existing reinforced concrete structure could not support the increased load, but concluded that it was possible to strengthen the columns and beams to accommodate double increase of load. To verify the load-bearing capacity of the existing piles resting directly on bedrock, testing was conducted on soil samples, and the necessary reinforcements for the foundation structure were determined.

Based on the conducted testing and the provided expert assessment, a reconstruction project was developed and successfully realized. The building was successfully rehabilitated and adapted for the designed use and occupancy.