Architects

Optimization of the design, maintenance & management of concrete infrastructure

Acting as an expert in engineering sustainable concrete, SIMCO can assist as early as the pre-project or preliminary design phase to identify concrete mix designs that would comply with the architect’s final vision of the structure. SIMCO takes into account the desired texture, color, and aesthetics, in addition to ease-of-placement criteria, durability requirements, and operating costs when optimizing concrete mix designs. SIMCO can also play an important role during the design and construction phase to assist in the evaluation, validation and optimization of the service life of the structure according to different conditions it will be exposed to during its service life.

For existing structures, SIMCO evaluates the current condition of the different structural elements (slab, columns, beams, foundation, walls, etc.) and architectural elements (precast wall panels) in order to provide a comprehensive assessment of the remaining useful life (diagnosis) and future behavior of the structure over time (prognosis). Data provided help managers, engineers and architects to prioritize interventions (maintenance and repairs) necessary to ensure a maximum service life of the structure.

New construction projects

• During the preliminary design phase – Assist in the selection of concrete mixes that will comply with the architect’s final vision of the structure (e.g., texture, color, aesthetics, LEED, etc.)
• Review of design specifications to optimize the service life and durability of the structure
• Characterization and qualification of raw materials
• Optimization of mix designs while considering geometry, exposure conditions, local materials available, etc.
• Elaboration of technical specifications to comply with service-life requirements and financial objectives (operational costs)
• Conduct validation tests of concrete properties onsite and in laboratory during construction (quality control)

Existing Structures

• Comprehensive investigations, inspections and forensic analyses
• Review of defects, lab test results and construction archives to identify degradation mechanisms affecting the structure
• Assess the current condition and predict the evolution of the structure over time
• Development of efficient intervention (maintenance and repair) strategies based on lifecycle costs
• Generation of input data for strategic asset management (prioritization, planning, decision making)
• Conduct validation tests of concrete properties onsite and in laboratory during construction (quality control)