Analysis of the structural integrity of wooden structures in service: case study with diagnostic methodologies and rehabilitation strategies

The rehabilitation, restoration, or reinforcement of wooden structures requires a thorough assessment of their "health" status. This evaluation is akin to Structural Integrity Assessment (SIA), which employs multidisciplinary techniques to determine the state of accumulated damage and its growth rate, enabling the prediction of the remaining service life of the structure and the scheduling of corrective actions. This case study aims to investigate the structural health of a wooden pergola in Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil, applying SIA based on methods of propedeutics, diagnosis, and therapy. Non-destructive tests such as acoustic tomography, controlled penetration test (Resistograph), and impact test (Pilodyn) were conducted for propedeutics and diagnosis. Macroscopic visual assessment identified the wood species used in the pergola: Cumaru, Angelim Vermelho, and an unidentified species. The wood strength class was determined by the resistograph, and biotic, abiotic, and structural damages were evaluated. The structural performance analysis, considering the actual sections and the physical and mechanical characteristics of the wood, was performed using SAP 2000 software, with the verification of structural elements and connections according to the Brazilian standard NBR 7190. The study concludes by presenting therapies of a constructive nature, treatment and protection, and structural character.