The Manufacturing Technology Centre has published an “industry-first” playbook that details how to deal with reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC).
MTC’s built environment chief technologist, Steve Nesbitt, told CM earlier this year that the document aims to empower construction professionals with the information needed to confidently address the presence and condition of RAAC in buildings.
The government-funded playbook has been produced with the Construction Leadership Council and industry stakeholders. It marks the first step towards defining a standardised approach to long-term management of RAAC.
Non-destructive methods
The playbook showcases non-destructive methods to assess the presence and condition of RAAC in buildings, such as ground-penetrating radar, backscatter X-ray, and ultrasonic testing.
MTC said these techniques offer a faster, more cost-effective alternative to traditional intrusive methods.
The playbook also includes an analysis of technical parameters for developing effective solutions, a review of existing principles, and methods and assessment for the most appropriate solutions for remediating RAAC roof planks. There is also information on reinforce-to-replace strategies, and industry case studies of remediation options.
Nesbitt said: “The deteriorating RAAC in UK public buildings demands urgent attention. However, due to insufficient records and limitations with current detection methods, the exact condition of any given RAAC plank in a building can be uncertain.
“By developing a non-destructive testing method and producing this first draft of our RAAC Playbook, we hope to realise a future where RAAC can be either replaced in a secure, easy and affordable way, or guaranteed to be safe in all buildings across the UK.”
