Research Proposal on Evaluating the Strength of Concrete in Coastal Environment (Case Study Delta State)
CHAPTER ONE
Aims and Objectives of the Study
The primary aim of this research is to evaluate the strength of concrete in coastal environments in Delta State, Nigeria. To achieve this aim, the following specific objectives will be pursued:
- To assess the impact of high humidity levels on the compressive strength of concrete in coastal areas of Delta State.
- To investigate the influence of saline water exposure on the durability of concrete structures in the region.
- To analyze the effects of aggressive environmental conditions, such as chemical exposure, on the long-term performance of concrete in coastal environments.
Preamble to the Study
Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials globally due to its durability and versatility (Goglio et al., 2020; Sandanayake et al., 2018). Its ability to withstand various environmental conditions has made it a cornerstone of modern construction. However, its performance can be significantly affected by the environment in which it is placed, particularly in coastal regions (Colangelo et al., 2020). Coastal environments are characterized by high humidity, saline water exposure, and aggressive environmental conditions (Goglio et al., 2020). These unique challenges pose a significant threat to the long-term durability and sustainability of concrete structures.
In the context of Nigeria, Delta State, located in the southern part of the country, is particularly vulnerable to these challenges due to its extensive coastline along the Gulf of Guinea (Goglio et al., 2020). The construction industry in Delta State has experienced substantial growth in recent years, with extensive development of infrastructure, residential buildings, and industrial facilities (GlobalABC, 2019). Many of these structures are situated in coastal areas, amplifying concerns about the long-term performance of concrete in this environment (Sandanayake et al., 2018).
The degradation of concrete in coastal regions can have severe consequences (Goglio et al., 2020). Structural failures resulting from concrete deterioration not only lead to increased maintenance costs but also pose safety risks to inhabitants (Sandanayake et al., 2018). The corrosive nature of coastal environments can compromise the structural integrity of buildings and infrastructure, endangering lives and property (GlobalABC, 2019). Therefore, it is imperative to evaluate the strength and durability of concrete used in these coastal areas to ensure the sustainability of structures and the safety of their occupants (Colangelo et al., 2020).
Methodology
Research Design
This study will employ a quantitative survey research approach to assess the strength of concrete in coastal environments. This approach was chosen to allow for the collection of numerical data, facilitating statistical analysis and the achievement of our research objectives. The research design aligns with the recommendations of Anderson, Fontinha, and Robson (2020) and Saunders, Lewis, and Thornhill (2016, 2019) regarding research design and philosophies.
Population of the Study
The target population for this study includes individuals and concrete structures located in coastal areas of Delta State, Nigeria. This population selection aligns with Gray’s (2018) emphasis on defining the study population based on practical relevance. Coastal regions in Delta State, Nigeria, are particularly vulnerable to environmental stressors, making the individuals residing in these areas crucial informants for this study. Their daily experiences and observations regarding the performance of concrete structures under the prevailing conditions will be essential in achieving the research objectives (Gray, 2018).
Additionally, concrete structures in coastal areas form an integral part of the target population. These structures are constantly exposed to environmental factors such as high humidity, saline water, and chemical aggressiveness, which can significantly impact their strength and durability. Assessing the performance of these concrete structures is essential to understanding the long-term effects of coastal environments, aligning with the objectives of this study (Gray, 2018).
Incorporating both individuals and concrete structures within the target population allows for a holistic examination of the research problem. The experiences and insights of individuals living in coastal areas will complement the empirical data obtained from concrete structures. This comprehensive approach aligns with Gray’s (2018) recommendation to define the study population in a manner that reflects the practical realities of the research context and ensures that the findings are relevant and applicable to the coastal regions of Delta State, Nigeria.
References
- Anderson, V., Fontinha, R., & Robson, F. (2020). Research Methods in Human Resource Management: Investigating a Business Issue. 4th Ed. London: CIPD.
- Beiske, B. (2017). Research Methods: Uses and Limitations of questionnaires, interviews, and case studies. GRIN Verlag.
- Beiske, B. (2017). Research Methods: Uses and Limitations of questionnaires, interviews, and case studies. GRIN Verlag.
- Colangelo, F.; Navarro, T.G.; Farina, I.; Petrillo, A. Comparative LCA of concrete with recycled aggregates: A circular economy mindset in Europe. Int. J. Life Cycle Assess. 2020, 25, 1790–1804.
- Easterby-Smith, M., Thorpe, R., & Jackson, P.R. (2018). Management and Business Research. London: Sage.
- GlobalAbc—Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction; International Energy Agency and United Nations Environment Programme. In 2019 Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction: Towards a Zero-Emissions, Efficient and Resilient Buildings and Construction Sector; UN Environment Programme: Nairobi, Kenya, 2019.
- Goddard, W., & Melville, S. (2020). Research Methodology: An Introduction. 2nd edition, Blackwell Publishing.
- Goglio, P.; Williams, A.G.; Balta-Ozkan, N.; Harris, N.R.P.; Williamson, P.; Huisingh, D.; Zhang, Z.; Tavoni, M. Advances and challenges of life cycle assessment (LCA) of greenhouse gas removal technologies to fight climate changes. J. Clean. Prod. 2020, 244, 118896.
- Newman, I. and Benz, C. R. (2020) Qualitative-quantitative research methodology: exploring the interactive continuum. Carbondale: Southern Illinois University Press.
- Sandanayake, M.; Lokuge, W.; Zhang, G.; Setunge, S.; Thushar, Q. Greenhouse gas emissions during timber and concrete building construction—A scenario-based comparative case study. Sustain. Cities Soc. 2018, 38, 91–97.
- Saunders, M., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2016, 2019). Research Methods for Business Students. 7th/8th Ed. Harlow: Pearson Education.
- Saunders, M., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2019). Research Methods for Business Students. 8th Ed. Harlow: Pearson Education.
