Characterisation and diagnosis of heritage concrete: case studies at the Eduardo Torroja Institute, Madrid, Spain

Abstract

That the preservation of twentieth concrete heritage is an area scantly explored can be attributed to a lack of appreciation for such a young material. In most cases conservation is broached from a technical perspective with little regard for heritage value. Ongoing assessment of the condition of structures is the primary strategy to minimise such misguided action. This study involved characterising the condition of the concrete in a number of singular elements forming part of the Eduardo Torroja Institute for Construction Science headquarters at Madrid, Spain, a modernist compound listed by the city of Madrid as a protected asset. The in situ findings using non-destructive and laboratory techniques revealed the core concrete to be in good condition. The surface material, however, exhibits signs of durability issues calling for conservation treatments and techniques compatible with the preservation of the integrity and authenticity of this young heritage material.