International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 05 | May 2025
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
Structural Assessment and Strengthening Techniques of Fire-Affected Building Vishvajit Baban Patil¹, Prof. Pravin Bhasme² ¹PG Student, School of Civil and Environmental Sciences, JSPM University, Pune ²Assistant Professor, School of Civil and Environmental Sciences, JSPM University, Pune ------------------------------------------------------------------------***------------------------------------------------------------------------Abstract This report presents a comprehensive technical assessment and evaluation of a fire-affected building located at MIDC Dhatav, Roha. The assessment focuses on determining the extent of structural and non-structural damage caused by the fire incident and outlines appropriate strengthening techniques for rehabilitation. The inspection involved a visual survey, documentation of fire-induced damages, and a preliminary evaluation of structural integrity. Key observations indicated varying levels of thermal damage to reinforced concrete elements, masonry walls, roofing systems, and essential services like electrical and plumbing. The fire primarily compromised the structural performance of load-bearing components in localized zones, necessitating detailed investigation through nondestructive and destructive testing methods. Based on the findings, the report recommends specific strengthening techniques including fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) wrapping, section enlargement, epoxy injection for crack repair, and use of fire-resistant coatings. The goal is to restore the structural performance, ensure occupant safety, and bring the building back to serviceable condition in compliance with applicable codes and standards. This assessment serves as a critical step toward informed decision-making for repair, retrofitting, or partial reconstruction, ensuring both safety and cost-efficiency in post-fire rehabilitation.
Keywords Fire-affected building, structural assessment, non-destructive testing, concrete spalling, thermal damage, retrofitting, strengthening techniques, concrete jacketing, epoxy injection, structural rehabilitation
1. Introduction Fire incidents can significantly compromise the structural integrity and safety of buildings, especially in industrial or commercial settings where high heat loads and combustible materials are often present. The structural damage induced by fire may not always be immediately visible but can have critical implications for the long-term stability and usability of the structure. Therefore, a methodical technical assessment becomes essential to determine the severity of the damage and to formulate appropriate strengthening or rehabilitation strategies. The building under assessment is an industrial plant located in MIDC Dhatav, Roha, constructed in 1997 using M20 grade concrete, designed to withstand industrial loading requirements. The plant primarily deals with the handling and processing of rubber-based raw materials, which are known to be highly combustible under elevated temperatures. On 12th May 2024, during the morning shift, a fire incident occurred on the first floor of the two-storey building. The fire was reportedly caused by an electrical short circuit, which rapidly escalated due to the presence of flammable raw materials in the vicinity. The fire was contained by fire response teams before it could spread significantly to other floors. As a result, the ground floor and second floor remained structurally unaffected, with no visible signs of distress or thermal exposure. A visual inspection was conducted immediately after the incident to identify and map the fire-damaged zones. This was followed by Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) on selected structural elements, including rebound hammer tests and ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), to assess the residual strength of the concrete and detect internal flaws.
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