Tests on concrete columns at Mater Dei Hospital have uncovered evidence of previous failed repair works, Times of Malta has learnt.

Repair works had been done to stop corrosion of the steel reinforcement
inside the columns by water that was absorbed through the concrete. The water absorption rate was also found to be more than double what was expected of high quality concrete in place for 20 years.

The report said concrete was impacted by a high level of carbonation – physical changes to concrete as a result of water absorption. The tests formed part of the exercise undertaken by Arup, a UK engineering firm, last summer.

Evidence of the repair works carried out in the past was found in the service tunnel situated below the Casualty Department, which formed part of the initial structures. The construction of the department began late in 1995 and most of the weak concrete was poured between March and May 1996.

The four main concrete suppliers were Blokrete, Tal-Magħtab, Mixer Ltd and Devlands. Subsequent studies by Arup on the rest of the hospital found weaknesses in other areas.

More in Times of Malta and timesofmalta.com Premium.

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