Forensic Investigations of Concrete Degradation: Case Study of a Hydropower Project
Publication: Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities
Volume 38, Issue 1
Abstract
This paper focuses on concrete degradation of hydraulic conveyance components of a hydropower project in Uganda that was commissioned in 2019. During a routine outage inspection in 2021, concrete damage was observed in the waterways. The engineering-procure-construct (EPC) contractor was notified to remedy the defects but they declined, claiming that it was normal erosion wear. In order to ascertain the root cause, avert a potential dispute, and apportion liability, a forensic investigation was conducted by the owner. Site inspections, water quality sampling and testing, and concrete core sampling and testing were carried out during the forensic investigation. The findings indicate that the Nile River water is highly aggressive, and the coupled soft water attack and hydraulic erosion-abrasion led to the premature concrete surface degradation. In order to enhance durability and long-term performance of the waterways, a protective surface coating has been recommended. The investigations have been very useful to avert costly and time-consuming disputes between the owner and the contractor because the cause and party responsible for the defects have been identified, and the contractor has agreed to take remedial action in accordance with the contract. The study will be useful for other planned hydropower projects along the Nile River and similar projects globally.
Practical Applications
The paper reveals the significance of forensic investigations at a hydropower infrastructure project to ascertain the durability of the civil engineering components of the facility, and in turn the overall performance of the infrastructure. The study undertakes a forensic investigation of concrete degradation within hydraulic conveyance components of a recently commissioned hydropower project in Uganda. The findings reveal practical insights for industry practitioners on the key design and construction considerations for hydropower plants or similar water conveyance systems. Key findings from the investigations, as well as durability recommendations for future project waterways, are shared for best industry practice, including adopting a comprehensive durability design and performance-based approach for key infrastructure such as hydropower plants.
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Data Availability Statement
Some or all data, models, or code that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
Acknowledgments
The authors acknowledge the assistance and support of the following during the investigations: Professor Mike Otieno of University of Witwatersrand, Jacques du Plessis of GIBB Johannesburg, and UEGCL projects and operations employees especially Godfrey Rwankafunjo, Eng., Chad S. Akita, Doreen Abamarungi, and Dr. Mary Akurut. We also extend our thanks to UEGCL staff Matthew Arikosi Otim and Oden Akanyijuka for helping with the literature articles.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities
Volume 38 • Issue 1 • February 2024
Copyright
© 2023 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Apr 27, 2023
Accepted: Sep 5, 2023
Published online: Oct 31, 2023
Published in print: Feb 1, 2024
Discussion open until: Mar 31, 2024
ASCE Technical Topics:
- Business management
- Case studies
- Chemical degradation
- Chemical processes
- Chemistry
- Concrete
- Construction engineering
- Construction management
- Contracts and subcontracts
- Energy engineering
- Energy sources (by type)
- Engineering fundamentals
- Engineering materials (by type)
- Environmental engineering
- Forensic engineering
- Hydraulic engineering
- Hydraulics
- Hydro power
- Materials engineering
- Methodology (by type)
- Practice and Profession
- Project management
- Renewable energy
- Research methods (by type)
- Structural engineering
- Water and water resources
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