Inspecção e Diagnóstico de Estruturas em Betão Armado: Estudo de Caso do Prédio do Livro no Distrito Urbano do Sambizanga, Luanda

Abstract

The management of geological-geotechnical risks in disordered urban settlements is a critical challenge for the safety of urban communities in developing countries. This paper presents a case study in the Municipality of Viana, Angola, aiming to analyse risk management processes and propose an intervention model. The research, of a mixed-method nature (qualitative and quantitative), was based on interviews with municipal managers, the administration of 300 questionnaires to residents of the Caop A, B, and C neighbourhoods, and document analysis. The results reveal an incipient institutional structure, with a predominantly reactive approach, centralized in the Inspection Department and the Municipal Master Plan (PDM). 58 retention basins and 17 riverbeds were identified, with 3,428 households located in flood-prone areas. The population shows high risk awareness (90%) and previous experience with landslides (60%). It is concluded that the implementation of robust public policies, reinforcement of inspection and enforcement, relocation of at-risk populations, and community education programs are necessary.

The inspection and diagnosis of reinforced concrete structures are essential to ensure the safety, functionality, and durability of the built heritage, particularly in buildings over 50 years old, subject to accelerated degradation processes. This paper presents a case study of the "Prédio do Livro", located in the Sambizanga Urban District, Luanda, Angola. The study was based on a methodology of visual inspection, in situ and laboratory tests, and the application of inspection and diagnosis forms adapted to the local context. The results revealed a critical state of conservation, characterized by cracking, reinforcement corrosion, dampness, material degradation, and structural overloads due to unforeseen interventions. It is concluded that the advanced degradation of the building is associated with a lack of maintenance, deficient use, and the absence of a structured system of periodic inspection. The urgent implementation of rehabilitation measures, the relocation of residents, and the development of public policies that promote the conservation and regular inspection of the built heritage in Angola are recommended.