On June 23, 2012, a roof section of the Algo Center Mall in Elliot Lake, Ontario collapsed and killed two people. A forensic examination was initiated by the Ontario Provincial Police after this tragic event in order to find out the cause of the structure collapse. Giatec was selected as an independent engineering firm to assist OPP with the materials analysis and structural inspection. Giatec’s team of concrete and corrosion experts have utilized their novel technologies for accurate detection and evaluation of deteriorations in the structure of the mall. Additional laboratory tests will be carried out in order to identify the exact mechanisms that led to the collapse of the mall roof. In collaboration with NORR Ltd, Giatec will provide the required scientific evidence for the ongoing investigation in this case.
Giatec’s team has more than ten years of experience dealing with durability problems related to concrete materials and corrosion of reinforcement at both academic and industrial levels. They have conducted comprehensive and detailed condition assessments on many concrete structures such as hotels, hospitals, concrete piers, and jetties, and railroad concrete ties deteriorated in exposure to harsh environments. Giatec’s unique services are supported by the vast knowledge of its experts specialized in various disciplines from civil engineering, materials science, electrochemistry, and corrosion engineering. Giatec has also developed high-tech devices for durability-based concrete quality control and accurate detection and assessment of damages in concrete structures.
