COURSE OVERVIEW:

The marine environment represents one of the most aggressive exposures for concrete structures due to the relentless action of chlorides, sulfates, and physical erosion. This course provides a comprehensive exploration of how concrete behaves when subjected to seawater, salt spray, and tidal fluctuations. It covers the chemical and physical mechanisms that lead to deterioration, focusing specifically on how environmental variables influence the long term service life of maritime infrastructure.

The scope of this training extends from initial material selection and mix design to the implementation of sophisticated protection strategies. Participants will examine the critical role of permeability, the electrochemical nature of reinforcement corrosion, and the impact of marine organisms on structural integrity. By understanding these foundational elements, engineers and maintenance professionals can better predict structural behavior and implement preventative measures that extend the operational life of piers, jetties, and coastal defenses.

The final component of the coverage focuses on modern diagnostic techniques and rehabilitation methodologies. Attendees will learn to differentiate between various repair mortars, cathodic protection systems, and surface treatments designed for high salinity areas. The course ensures that all participants can develop a structured approach to asset management, balancing economic constraints with the technical necessity of maintaining safety and functionality in harsh oceanic conditions.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

1.  Identify the primary chemical components of seawater that cause concrete degradation.

2.  Analyze the mechanism of chloride ion penetration and its effect on steel reinforcement.

3.  Evaluate the impact of sulfate attack on the cement paste matrix in submerged zones.

4.  Specify appropriate cement types and mineral admixtures for high durability marine concrete.

5.  Determine the optimal water-to-cement ratio required to minimize permeability in tidal zones.

6.  Conduct visual and non-destructive inspections to assess the extent of structural damage.

7.  Interpret electrochemical measurements to locate active corrosion in submerged piles.

8.  Design a comprehensive repair strategy for honeycombed or spalled concrete surfaces.

9.  Select specialized repair materials, including epoxy resins and fiber-reinforced polymers.

10.  Implement cathodic protection systems to mitigate ongoing galvanic corrosion processes.

11.  Apply surface coatings and penetrants to reduce moisture and salt ingress.

12.  Formulate a long-term maintenance and monitoring plan for coastal infrastructure.

13.  Assess the structural implications of physical abrasion from waves and suspended solids.

TARGET AUDIENCE:  

Civil engineers, marine structural surveyors, port maintenance managers, construction supervisors, and materials engineers involved in the design and upkeep of coastal and offshore concrete assets.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.