Sustainability

At Sanacon, we focus on maximizing the lifespan of your (concrete) structures. Our approach consists of a systematic process of inspection, research, and advice to ensure the sustainability of your building or infrastructure.

Sustainability starts with three crucial questions

At Sanacon, we approach sustainability from a clear and well-founded framework. To extend the lifespan of a structure, we always start with three essential questions:

Is the structure degrading today?

Through file research, on-site investigation, and monitoring, we determine whether carbonation, chloride intrusion, mechanical damage, or other degradation mechanisms are present.

How quickly should intervention take place?

We determine the urgency based on measurement results, model calculations (such as DIMCOST ), and risk assessments. This gives you clear insight into whether immediate action is necessary or whether follow-up is sufficient.

What measures are needed to extend lifespan?

We formulate concrete, feasible, and technically sound solutions to sustainably repair, protect, or monitor the structure — always with a focus on maximum lifespan and minimal intervention.

Our unique approach

File study & Visual inspection

Intake of the structure to gain insight into the issues. Based on this, the further process is defined.

On-site research

Targeted inspection, sampling and measurement data collection on-site.

Analysis & risk assessment

Processing of all measurement data and calculating current and future risks.

Advice

Risk-based advice for possible further steps

Monitoring

Periodic assessment of the condition

Repair

Taking direct action to stop further degradation

File study and visual inspection

A file review consolidates all available information to create a clear picture of the current situation. We collect, organize, and analyze all relevant data from your file. This allows us to discover what’s truly happening and which factors are decisive. These insights form the basis for targeted follow-up and well-considered decisions. With a clear and comprehensive overview, you can proceed efficiently and with a sound foundation.

This is usually followed by a visual inspection of your (concrete) structure. This involves identifying visible damage, wear, cracks, or other signs of aging. A visual inspection can be conducted at specific locations or across the entire structure. In the latter case, we call it an inventory. For this, we work within the normative framework according to the NEN 2767 method. A condition score is determined, and heat maps can be created to visually illustrate the distribution of damage on plans or 3D models.

For hard-to-reach locations, we use drones or ROVs. The images can also be further processed into orthophotos with damage characteristics.

On-site research

During the on-site investigation, we accurately map the concrete cover, among other things. We perform control measurements and drill cores for further laboratory analysis. This combination of targeted measurements and material analysis provides a realistic picture of the actual structural condition. For specific tests, we work closely with our long-term partner, Beton+. This guarantees reliable results that serve as the basis for sound technical advice.

Our partner for concrete research, responsible for the correct sampling and processing of samples in their laboratory.

Analysis & risk assessment

The collected data is compiled into our proprietary data platform, DIMCOST. This platform allows for structured data collection and assessment of the risks of depassivation (necessary for corrosion).

When performing such residual life calculations, we use scientifically proven calculation models, including those described in FIB Bulletin 34 and FIB Bulletin 76. These help accurately predict the remaining life of concrete, taking into account the most important degradation mechanisms such as carbonation, chloride ingress, and other environmental factors.

DIMCOST is cloud-based software that calculates the risk of depassivation in concrete structures based on carbonation and chloride ingress. The model translates environmental data, material parameters, and concrete cover into a scientifically sound estimate of remaining service life and maintenance requirements.

Monitoring

Even if the on-site investigation indicates that no immediate action is required, it can still be valuable to actively monitor the condition of the structure. Through targeted monitoring, Sanacon closely monitors the evolution of critical parameters, ensuring that any changes are identified promptly.

We guide you through this process: which parameters need to be measured where , which measurement methods are most suitable , and which limit values ​​trigger action . This structured monitoring gives you reliable insight into the long-term condition of your structure and allows you to proactively intervene when truly necessary.

Monitoring gives you peace of mind, certainty, and sound control over your assets — and Sanacon supports you every step of the way.

Customer-specific recovery scenarios

Depending on the complexity and budgetary constraints of a project, we develop various scenarios for restoring or protecting the structure. We determine the economic impact, i.e., the initial investment cost, the total cost of ownership for the intended remaining maintenance-free lifespan of the structure, and the advantages and disadvantages (risks) associated with choosing repair.

 

From advice to practical solution

Technical implementation file

Once a specific scenario has been selected, Sanacon will prepare a complete technical implementation file containing a description of the works, implementation plans, and cost estimates. This file can then be used to launch a tender for suitable contractors.

Guidance until delivery

After awarding the contract to a contractor, Sanacon can also be deployed for project monitoring. During site inspections, specific attention is paid to ensuring the work is being carried out according to industry standards and that all techniques and materials meet the established quality standards.

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Discover how Sanacon extends the lifespan of existing structures with innovative techniques and sustainable solutions. Our projects demonstrate proven results in a wide range of sectors.
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Your structure deserves a future. Protection against deterioration, strengthening its load-bearing capacity, and extending its lifespan are crucial to prevent damage and high costs. Sanacon offers independent advice and innovative solutions to keep your structure sustainable and safe – today and for decades to come.