Structural, morphological and mechanical properties of concrete slab in traditional buildings, case study: Casablanca-Morocco

Morphological, structural and mechanical analyses were performed on reinforced concrete slab samples used in traditional buildings in Casablanca, Morocco. Spectral (X-ray diffraction) and morphological analysis revealed that all samples had a low Ca/Si intensity, which could be the primary factor responsible for the reduction in compressive strength of the studied concrete slabs. In the mechanical part, the compressive strength ranges between 30.5 and 29.1 MPa, and the flexural strength ranges between 13 and 15 MPa, both of which are too low compared to existing buildings. Several factors, including porosity, hardening, age, aggregate type, water-cement ratio, and Ca/Si ratio, could account for these results. These results aim to obtain the basic knowledge necessary to propose a correct diagnosis, useful for planning conservation projects compatible with the specificity of the local culture of the building.