Sixense offers a comprehensive range of structural recognition investigation methods based on field surveys and laboratory tests. These methods can be used to collect all the input data required for a structural assessment, regardless of the materials and types of structures involved:
- Geometric survey
- Reconstruction of reinforcement and cabling plans
- Characterisation of the mechanical properties of materials
- Qualification of the state of conservation of materials
Our areas of expertise in structural recognition
Reinforced concrete structures
- Survey of construction principles and potential pathologies
- Reconstruction of reinforcement plans (identification of reinforcement type, positioning and diameter)
- Modelling of geometry
- Reconstruction of load-bearing structures and construction principles
- Sampling of concrete test specimens for determining mechanical characteristics in the laboratory
Pre-stressed concrete structures
- Analysis of anchorage types and identification of prestressing processes
- Reconstruction of sheath and cable positioning
- Measurement of residual tension in prestressing cables (post- or pre-tensioning)
- Identification of specific defects (e.g. injection defects, corrosion)
- Sampling materials for laboratory testing (e.g. prestressing steel, injection grout, fossil water)
Metal structures
- Survey of the geometry of steel frame elements
- Identification of assembly types (riveted, bolted or welded)
- Identification of bracing principles
- Survey of defects and measurement of residual metal thickness
- Sampling steel for tensile testing in a laboratory
Masonry structures
- Identification of materials (e.g. bricks, stones and mortar)
- Reconstruction of the overall geometry
- Recognition of the internal geometry (e.g. vault thicknesses and openings)
- Identification of stress distribution patterns and load-bearing principles
- Core sampling for compression testing of composite materials (blocks and joints)
Wooden structures
- Geometric surveys and 3D modelling
- Survey of construction principles and assembly types
- Identification of wood species
- Mechanical characterisation through visual inspection, sampling for laboratory testing or in-situ measurements
- Identification of defects and characterisation of condition
