Multi Mapping in Forensic Engineering

Forensic Engineering needs an especially detailed approach to investigation, collection and analysis of evidence materials. Extremely high precision and accuracy of the deductions are required. The Multi Mapping procedure includes mapping the deteriorations and the failures resulting from their occurrence. Precise information on the cause and effect of the observed phenomenon can be obtained by a comparison of the relationships. Initially this technique was used for the investigation of concrete structures. This technique incorporates a unified graphic presentation and analysis of the test results of reinforced concrete structures obtained from implementing various diagnostic methods. In this case, the Multi Mapping procedure comprises maps depicting the investigated surfaces, incorporating the corrosion level of the reinforcement, concrete strength, the degree of carbonisation, the thickness of concrete cover, the chloride content, the permeability of the concrete cover, etc. Maps shall be created on these bases. Analysis of the matched maps enables specifying of the areas that require special diagnostic control, identification of the deterioration factors and estimation of the complex hazards of structural durability. For a forensic investigation, all possible threats to the target should be taken into consideration: natural hazards, failures due to human errors in the design, manufacture and operation. A comparison of maps collected in a given time period should precisely document the deterioration processes. The matching of maps with possible threats and the occurrence of damages should show the right cause of failure, clearly identifying the culprit. Different threats are to be analysed, utilizing the same units in comparing the investigation results. It will be the hazard d of destruction or of the deterioration factor over a critical value expressed as a percentage.