ASSIGNMENT 1A

RESEARCH ON BUILDING MATERIAL-CONCRETE

TYPE OF CONCRETE AND APPLICATION

(FERROCEMENT CONCRETE, FIBER REINFORCEMENT

CONCRETE, GYPSUM CONCRETE, STAMPED CONCRETE,

TRANSLUCENT CONCRETE)

BACHELOR OF QUANTITY SURVEYING (HONOURS)

NAME: STUDENT ID:

NG DING BOON 0319243

LEE HAN LIN 0310527

TENG KANG YEE 0318702

HJ MUHD SYAFIQ BIN HJ ABD ZARIFUL 0314702

SECTION : MARCH INTAKE 2014

LECTURER : PN. HASMANIRA MOKHTAR

TUTOR : PN. HASMANIRA MOKHTAR

Contents

Topic 1: Ferrocement.........................................................................................................4

1.1 Introduction of ferrocement......................................................................................4

1.2 Constituents of ferrocement.....................................................................................4

1.3 Construction process of ferrocement.......................................................................5

1.4 Properties of ferrocement.........................................................................................6

1.5 Advantages & Disadvantages of ferrocement..........................................................7

1.6 Applications of ferrocement......................................................................................8

Topic 2: Fiber Reinforcement Concrete...........................................................................11

2.1 Introduction of Fiber Reinforcement Concrete (FRC)............................................11

2.2 Properties of Fiber Reinforced Concrete................................................................12

2.3 Types of Fibers......................................................................................................12

2.4 Advantages & Disadvantages of Fiber Reinforced Concrete.................................14

2.5 Applications of Fiber Reinforced Concrete.............................................................15

Topic 3: Gypsum Concrete..............................................................................................17

3.1 Introduction of Gypsum Concrete..........................................................................17

3.2 Composition of Gypsum Concrete.........................................................................18

3.3 Advantages & Disadvantages of Gypsum concrete...............................................19

3.4 Applications of Gypsum Concrete..........................................................................19

Topic 4: Stamped Concrete.............................................................................................21

4.1 Introduction of Stamped Concrete.........................................................................21

4.2 Installation of Stamped Concrete...........................................................................21

4.3 Advantages & Disadvantages of Stamped Concrete.............................................21

4.4 Suitability................................................................................................................23

4.5 Aesthetical value....................................................................................................23

4.6 Maintenance...........................................................................................................24

Topic 5: Translucent Concrete.........................................................................................25

5.1 Introduction of Translucent Concrete.....................................................................25

5.2 Manufacturing Process of Translucent Concrete...................................................25

5.3 Properties & Functions of Translucent Concrete...................................................26

5.4 Characteristics of Translucent Concrete................................................................26

5.5 Advantages & Disadvantages of Translucent Concrete.........................................27

5.6 Applications of Translucent Concrete....................................................................28

References.......................................................................................................................30

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TOPIC 1.......................................................................................................................30

TOPIC 2.......................................................................................................................30

TOPIC 3.......................................................................................................................32

TOPIC 4.......................................................................................................................33

TOPIC 5.......................................................................................................................34

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Topic 1: Ferrocement

1.1 Introduction of ferrocement

Ferrocement can be considered as a type of reinforced concrete which multiple

layers of small-diameter wire meshes are used throughout the cross section and

in which Portland cement mortar is used instead of concrete. Thickness of a

ferrocement structure is usually ranging from 20mm to 50mm. (Sakthivel &

Jagannathan, 2013; Shah & DIRECTOR, 1981; “What is Ferrocement ? |

Myhouseconstruction.com” n.d.)

Fig 1

1.2 Constituents of ferrocement

Steel reinforcing mesh

Metallic mesh is the most common type of reinforcement being used in this

section. 3mm to 8mm of steel rods are used to form the skeleton of the structure.

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Reinforcement should be rust-treated, galvanized or stainless steel for optimum

performance.(Sakthivel & Jagannathan, 2013)

Cement

Portland cement is generally used in ferrocement. (Shah, 1981)

Water

The water used for mixing cement mortar should be clean and fit for construction

purposes. The pH value of water should be equal or greater than 7 and free from

organic matter, for instances, silt, oil, sugar, chloride and acidic material.

(Sakthivel & Jagannathan, 2013)

Aggregates

Only fine aggregate is used in ferrocement. Coarse aggregate is not used in

ferrocement. Moreover, sand should be selected from river-beds and be free

from organic or other deleterious matter. (Sakthivel & Jagannathan, 2013)

Furthermore, plasticizers and other admixtures such as silica fumes, or blast

furnace slag. Chemical admixtures used in ferrocement have purposes of water

reduction, air entrainment which increase resistance to freezing and thawing and

suppression of reaction between reinforcement and cement.(“ferrocement-

131125063706-phpapp01,” n.d.)

1.3 Construction process of ferrocement

The construction of ferrocement can be generally divided into four phases:

1. Fabricating the skeletal framing system

2. Applying rods and mesh

3. Plastering

4. Curing

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Phase 1 and phase 3 require special skills to be completed while phase 2 is very

labour intensive.(Shah, 1981)

Fabricating the skeletal framing system/applying rods and mesh

This process requires three types of workers-steel fabricator, welder as well as

plasterer to produce the ferrocement components. Wires used should be cut and

bent inwards properly. It is very important for the wire reinforcement to lay

equally and firmly tied to each other as well as to the skeletal steel, and welding

has to be done in accordance with the requirements.(Sakthivel & Jagannathan,

2013)

Plastering

There is a typical mortar composition for constructing ferrocement as shown

below:(Shah, 1981)

Portland cement Any type depending on application

Sand-to-cement ratio 1.0-2.5 by weight

Water-cement ratio 0.4-0.6 by weight

Application and quality of mortar are very critical. Mortar can be applied by hand

or by shotcreting (spray gun device). As no formwork is required while applying

mortar, ferrocement is suitable for structures with curved surfaces such as shells

and free-form shapes.(Shah, 1981)

Curing

A curing period of 28 days for the mortar is recommended. However, it will have

to cure at least in the first two weeks and should start 24 hours after final

application of the mortar to avoid occurrence of shrinkage cracks.(Sakthivel &

Jagannathan, 2013)

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1.4 Properties of ferrocement

Ferrocement owns a high tensile strength and stiffness and a better impact and

punching shear resistance compared with reinforced concrete. It is because of its

two-dimensional reinforcement of the mesh system on a per volume basis.

Besides, it will undergo large deformations before cracking or high deflections

before collapse. The major limitation in ferrocement is the percentage of

reinforcement. The reinforcement cannot be increased beyond certain limit.

Therefore, this limitation affects the strength of ferrocement and it cannot be

made use of where high impact or high load is expected. (Sakthivel &

Jagannathan, 2013)

BEHAVIOUR OF FERROCEMENT IN TENSION

REINFORCED CONCRETE FERROCEMENT CONCRETE

Fig 2

1.5 Advantages & Disadvantages of ferrocement

Advantages

Light weight.

Low maintenance costs.

Long durability.

High tensile strength.

o When a ferrocement sheet is mechanically overloaded, it will tend to

fold instead of break or rupture. The wire framework will hold the pieces

together.

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Superior crack resistant performance.

High fire resistant.(Desai, 2011)

Disadvantages

Labor-intensive (expensive for industrial application in the western world)

Threats to degradation (rust) of the steel components if air voids are left in

the original construction.

o Air voids can be forced out of the structure through vibration,

pressurized spraying techniques, or other means.

o If the voids occur where there is untreated steel, the steel will rust and

expand, causing the system to fail.

(“Ferrocement - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia,” n.d.)

1.6 Applications of ferrocement

1. TANKS, CONTAINERS AND SILOS

Tanks for storage of water and other materials such as chemicals, petroleum

products and powders with suitable coatings/ linings wherever necessary. It

can be constructed underground, at ground level on terrace or overhead on

tower.

Fig 3 Fig 4

2. HEAVY DUTY FLOORS TILES

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There are steel plates on the top surface of these tiles. So, they could resist

loads which cause heavy wear and tear impact. Thus, it is suitable to use in

the workshops and warehouse.

3. WALL CUPBOARDS

Wall cupboard with and without shutter for storage of office records and

factory materials as well as for domestic purpose.

4. ANTICORROSIVE MEMBRANE TREATMENT

No frequent painting and other special treatment is necessary for several

years. Epoxy or polyurethane treatment is also required if the area is highly

polluted. Therefore, it helps to save maintenance cost.

5. FERROCEMENT BUILDINGS

Ferrocement helps to reduce consumption of steel and cement when using it

to construct buildings for residential or commercial as ferrocement columns,

beams and panel system are used.

6. CHEMICAL RESISTANT TREATMENT

Ideal chemical substances which are normally used to overlay ferrocement

are epoxy, bitumen, polyurethane, chlorinated rubber and glass fibers.

7. RURAL APPLICATIONS

Ferrocement is ideal for construction of cattle sheds, silos for storage of food

grains, low cost houses, etc. in rural area.

8. MARINE APPLICATIONS

Marine structures such as boats, trawlers and floating docks which are

constructed by using ferrocement could resist marine atmosphere and unlike

steel, the corrosion phenomena is negligible.

9. ELEVATION TREATMENT

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Elevation treatment such as fins, projections - curved, folded and hollow, sun

shades to the building have been provided with advantage. The thickness

being much less as compared to RCC, there is dead load reduction. Elevation

with very small thickness of 20mm - 40 mm is not possible with RCC.

(“Ferrocement Applications, Heavy Duty Floors Tiles, Waterproofing, Manhole

Covers, Wall Cupboards, Elevation Treatment, Ferrocement Ducts, Mumbai,

India,” n.d.)

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Topic 2: Fiber Reinforcement Concrete

2.1 Introduction of Fiber Reinforcement Concrete (FRC)

Fig 1 Fig 2

The concept of using fibers to improve the properties of the concrete is very

old. In the early stages, people added straw to mud bricks, horse hair to reinforce

plaster and asbestos to reinforce pottery. (Wafa, 1990)

Civil structures made up of steel reinforced concrete usually suffering from

the corrosion of steel which strongly weaken the properties of the concrete.

Furthermore steel reinforced concrete require labours to arrange the steel bars.

As a result, the idea of fiber reinforced concrete becomes more susceptible to

public. Addition of fibers to concrete help to increase the toughness and tensile

strength and improve the cracking and deformation of the resultant composite.

When concrete cracks, the fibers start functioning which prevent the cracks

widen due to the adhesive bond polymer composites onto the structure. (Brown,

Shukla & Natarajan, 2002)

Concrete is more prone to plastic shrinkage during the setting phase and

thus also creates cracks. The fibers onto the concrete prevent it from plastic

shrinkage and also drying shrinkage. They also help reducing the permeability of

concrete from water.

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There are many types of fiber reinforced concrete which are produced by

using different types of fibers such as steel fibers, glass fibers, polypropylene

fibers and natural fibers.

2.2 Properties of Fiber Reinforced Concrete

The properties have to depend on the type of fiber used, the composition of fiber

in the concrete, diameter and size of the fiber and the dispersal of the fiber. With

the changes of these factors, the properties will be affect including the

toughness, tensile strength, durability, load carrying capacity and also shear

resistance (Aggeliki, 2011).

Fig 3

2.3 Types of Fibers

a) Steel Fibers

Fig 4 Fig 5

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These fibers have diameter ranges from 0.25mm to 0.75mm. They used for

enhancing the toughness and post crack load carrying capacity of the

concrete. These fibers are usually made from carbon or stainless steel and

are shaped into straight, crimped, twisted, hooked, ringed, and paddled ends

(Aggeliki , 2011 ; Wafa , 1990).

b) Glass Fibers

Diameter ranges from 0.005 to 0.015mm (may be bonded together to form

elements with diameters of 0.13 to 1.3mm). It is usually in straight shape. They

usually used in architectural applications and modified cement based panel

structures (Wafa, 1990 ; FRCA, 2007).

c) Micro-synthetic Fibers (polypropylene, polyester, nylon etc)

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Fig 6 Fig 7

Fig 8 Fig 9

These fibers help to reduce the shrinkage in concrete. They are generally in

plain, twisted, fibrillated, and with buttoned ends. Normally the volume of these

fibers is from 0.02% to 0.3% with volume of concrete (FRCA, 2007).

d) Natural Fibers (wood cellulose, coconut, sisal, jute, sugarcane etc)

These fibers are used to improve the strength of the cement based products in

applications around the world. They also come in varying sizes (Wafa, 1990 ;

FRCA, 2007).

2.4 Advantages & Disadvantages of Fiber Reinforced Concrete

Advantages

Improvement in plain concrete’s shrinkage properties (crack control)

Increases the ductility of the concrete

Increase durability of the concrete

No corrosion (except steel fibers but it corrodes with a very slow phase)

Increases tensile strength, moment capacity and stiffness of the concrete

Increases the shear capacity of the concrete

Less maintenance

Disadvantages

Difficulties in the process of fabrication. Since the process requires labours to

perform, so the cost of the fiber reinforced concrete is higher than traditional

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Fig 10 Fig 11

concrete (Jain & Kothari, 2012).

2.5 Applications of Fiber Reinforced Concrete

a) Runways, Aircraft Parking, Roadways and Pavements

With the use of FRC, the thickness of the slabs has been reduced to less than

half compare with the normal reinforced concrete. (From 375 mm thick reduced

to 150 mm). The crimped-end in shape of fiber reinforced concrete was used to

overlay an existing asphaltic-paved area. (Wafa, 1990)

b) Slope Stabilization and Tunnel Lining

The steel fiber reinforced shotcrete (pumping out the steel fiber reinforced

concrete through a hose) is used to put on the surface since with the properties

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Fig 12 Fig 13

Fig 14 Fig 15

of steel fiber reinforced concrete which the toughness and impact strength are

more superior than conventional reinforced shotcrete (Wafa, 1990 ; Stewols

India(P) Ltd, 2011)

c) Blast Resistance Structures

Steel fiber reinforced concrete is used in design of these structures due to

the enhancement of post cracking properties and the blast loading.

Additionally it is found that, under blast or shock wave, the slabs with steel

fiber reinforced concrete reduce 20% in fragment velocities and 80% in

fragmentation (Wafa, 1990)

d) Precast Structures

Steel and glass fibers reinforced concrete increases the strength the structures.

Additionally steel fiber reinforced shotcrete is used to make the circular shapes

using the inflated membrane process (Wafa, 1990).

e) Dams and Hydraulic Structure

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Fig 16 Fig 17

Fiber reinforced concrete (shotcrete) are used to repair the dams and hydraulic

structure due to its resistance to cavitation(damages) and erosion caused by the

strong impact of water flow (Wafa, 1990).

Topic 3: Gypsum Concrete

3.1 Introduction of Gypsum Concrete

Fig 1 Fig 2

Gypsum concrete is made by mixing the gypsum, portland cement, sand, water

and some addictives (Wikipedia on Gypsum Concrete, 2014).

For one of the main uses, gypsum concrete is used in underlayment for floors. In

very early states, people used the concrete pour onto the copper tubing for

warming the floors. However problems were found that concrete tends to corrode

the copper tubing as a result it did not achieve an optimistic effect on the purpose

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Fig 18 Fig 19

of radiant heating. From 50 years ago until now, people are using cross-linked

polyethylene (which is known as PEX) tubing which solves all the problems of

copper tubing. At the finishing work is that gypsum concrete is poured onto it

(Pour Floors of N.Y. and N.J., 2008)

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3.2 Composition of Gypsum Concrete

1. Gypsum

Fig 3 Fig 4

Gypsum is one of the kinds of minerals extracted from the ground. Fire resistant

is one of the most important functions of gypsum (Wanda, 2014).

2. Portland Cement

3. Sand

4. Water

5. Polyvinyl alcohol

Fig 5 Fig 6

It is an addictives in gypsum concrete. It is usually used as a bonding agent. In

gypsum concrete, polyvinyl alcohol prevents the surface of the concrete to be

dusty (Wikipedia on Gypsum Concrete, 2014).

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3.3 Advantages & Disadvantages of Gypsum concrete

Advantages

Light weight concrete

Fire resistant

Sound insulation

Provides a smooth and flat surface which allows easier installation of finished

floor goods

Less in cost than conventional concrete

Curing period is very much shorter (90 minutes)

More efficient in transferring the heat

Adheres with tubes and cables without forming bubbles and no shrinkage

cracks

Extraction of gypsum releases less carbon dioxide

Disadvantages

Not resistant to water

Short durability compared to conventional concrete

Further elaboration for the durability part:

According some fact cases, it was found that within a year after installation of

gypsum concrete onto the floor, the gypsum concrete started to crack and

deteriorate into dust. As a result, a hollow sound could be heard when knocking

the floor tiles. This leads to cracking of tiles if high impacts or heavy loads are

applied (Shawn, 2008)

3.4 Applications of Gypsum Concrete

1. Underlayment For House Floors

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Fig 7 Fig 8Gypsum concrete provides a lot of benefits such as giving support to transmit

heat and smooth surfaces (Hacker Industries, Inc. , 2014).

2. Sound Attenuation

Fig 9 Fig 10

Only a thin layer of gypsum concrete is needed in order to achieve the sound

control (Hacker Industries, Inc. , 2014)

3. Corrugated Metal Decking

Fig 11 Fig 12

Gypsum concrete is suitable for this purpose because it is light in weight, fire

resistant, quick drying and provides high strength compared to the same amount

of volume of conventional concrete used (Hacker Industries, Inc. , 2014 ; Maxxon

Corporation, 2013).

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Topic 4: Stamped Concrete

4.1 Introduction of Stamped Concrete

Stamped concrete is a decorative concrete that is often used as an economical

alternative to the more costly surface materials. It involves in pouring slab

concrete for driveways, walkways, patios, etc., and then impressing both patterns

and textures onto the concrete before it is fully dry.

4.2 Installation of Stamped Concrete

The process begins with typical pouring of concrete smoothly. While the concrete

is still wet and soft, the pattern is pressed into the mixture with a polyurethane

stamp, most regularly with different mixtures of stamp & sometimes with

decorative patterns. The process is finished with paint or a spray, pending on the

desired outcome.

4.3 Advantages & Disadvantages of Stamped Concrete

Advantages

Less workers needed compared to other surface materials.

Some installers find it more efficient to pour concrete and apply a pattern

than to haul and place individual paving stones by hand.

Reduced long-term maintenance and care.

Other surface materials such as pavers can become loose, while stains,

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weeds and moss can continuously occur over time, resulting in tripping

dangers. Stamped concrete's advantage is that it never needs resetting or

replacing due to its abrasion resistance in addition to sealing the surface

well, preventing cracks in the material for any type of growth.

Requires less maintenance.

Stamped concrete requires minimal maintenance than most other paving

materials, which can add up to big savings over the surface's lifetime in

the long run.

Increased durability.

Concrete, which lasts longer than other materials, is durable in nearly

every type of environment, and holds up better to traffic and wear.

Freedom of design.

Before it is dried, there is a wide selection of texture, pattern & color to

pick. With unlimited choices to choose from, people can control the design

of the stamped concrete that solely depends on their imagination.

Disadvantages

Poor sustainability.

One of the major disadvantages of stamped concrete is that it lacks

sustainability compared to other finished surfaces. It easily cracks and

scratches under a heavy load, especially when being exposed to weather,

hence is a poor choice for a driveway and any area on which cars are

driven or parked. The finishing agents used to color the surface are likely

to chip, flake and fade, especially when being exposed to weather.

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A large room for error during installation.

If the mixture contains too much water, a risk of rough edges and a poor

finish exist because the concrete easily adheres to the stamp. Bulging and

premature cracking is a problem with stamped concrete if the mixture is

too dry.

Cost more in the long run than interlocking pavers.

Because each paver is an individual piece, you do not have to worry about

pavers cracking from pressure or settling of the surface. As pavers begin

to settle, they may loosen, individual pavers are easily removed and

replaced.

4.4 Suitability

Stamped concrete is mostly used in exterior paths, such as walkways, patios and

driveways, due to its value improvements & appealing final products, adding a

decorative touch thanks to its ability to emulate slate, stone, brick, cobbles or

even wooden planks but with the durability of concrete, making it a desirable and

economical product for all. Moreover, houses built with concrete walls, floors, and

foundations are highly energy efficient because they take advantage of concretes

essential thermal masses ability to attract and retain heat. This means

homeowners can significantly cut their heating and cooling bills and install

smaller-capacity. Its reduced costs and easy maintenance makes it suitable for

busy & budget-saving places such as resorts, malls or theme parks.

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Concrete Batch Plant.

4.5 Aesthetical value

Stamped concrete comes in many colors, patterns and textures to choose from.

This allows it to imitate almost any surface from marble to stone to weathered

lumber, stamped concrete offers an amazingly attractive surface that improves

the qualities and designs of home and property.

4.6 Maintenance

There is no need for maintenance for the stamped concrete to retain its patterns

due to its standard durability; however, there are still a few things needed to

maintain the concrete such as:

Keeping the surface free of wreckages by using a broom, leaf blower, or

rinsing with water.

Stronger cleaning chemicals or a power washing and scrubbing may be

required to remove continuous stains such as dirt, tire marks and leaf stains.

To avoid any color fading, etc., of the stamped concrete surface, a sealer

would be used that is often applied every 2-3 years or so.

To protect the concrete from moisture penetration, freeze-thaw conditions,

de-icing chemicals, and abrasion, one of the ways is to use periodic sealing.

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Topic 5: Translucent Concrete

5.1 Introduction of Translucent Concrete

It is a mixture of fiber optics and exquisite concrete. Due to the small size of the

fibers, they blend into concrete becoming a component of the material like small

pieces of aggregate. The glass fibers lead light by points between the two sides

of the blocks. Because of their parallel position, the light-information on the

brighter side of such a wall appears unchanged on the darker side.

The most interesting form of this phenomenon is probably the sharp display of

shadows on the opposing side of the wall. Moreover, the color of the light also

remains the same. Thousands of optical glass fibers form a matrix and run

parallel to each other between the two main surfaces of each block. These fibers

mingle in the concrete because of their insignificant size, and they become a

structural component as a kind of modest aggregate. Therefore, the surface of

the blocks remains homogeneous (unmixed) concrete.

5.2 Manufacturing Process of Translucent Concrete

Several ways of producing translucent concrete exist. All are based on a fine

grain concrete (95% to 96%) and only (5% to 4%) light conducting elements that

are added during casting process. Following casting, the material is cut into

panels or blocks of the specified thickness and the surface is then typically

polished, resulting in finishes ranging from semi-gloss to high-gloss.

After setting, the concrete is cut to plates or stones with standard machinery for

cutting stone materials. The concrete mixture is made from fine materials only: it

contains no coarse aggregate.

Working with natural light it has to be ensured that enough light is available. Wall

mounting systems need to be equipped with some form of lighting, designed to

achieve uniform illumination on the full plate surface. Usually mounting systems

similar to natural stone panels are used.

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5.3 Properties & Functions of Translucent Concrete

Translucent concrete is primarily used for floors or load bearing walls.

Most of these concrete products can be used in horizontal and vertical

applications such as feature stairs, walls, floors, pavements, table, counter tops

and load bearing structures. It's properties is that the concrete is embedded with

optical glass fibers and are infused with it. The concrete's colors are mostly

white, grey or black. It has a high density of top layer concrete. It has a good fire

resistance and also highest UV resistance. The standard size of the concrete

block is around 600 x 300 mm, with a thickness of about 25-500 mm.

5.4 Characteristics of Translucent Concrete

Translucent concrete characteristics, the paper restrains its area towards the

reinforcement method of this type of concrete such that they can be practically

executed as a load bearing structure. It is also a green energy saving with the

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usage self-sensing properties of functional materials. According to study

maximum water absorption range is within 0.35%.

5.5 Advantages & Disadvantages of Translucent Concrete

Advantages

With the characteristic of being translucent, it can permit a better

interaction between the construction and its environment, thereby creating

ambiences that are better and more naturally lit, at the same time as

significantly reducing the expenses of laying and maintenance of the

concrete.

Can integrate the concept of green energy saving with the usage self-

sensing properties of functional materials.

When a solid wall is imbued with the ability to transmit light, it means that

a home can use fewer lights in their house during daylight hours which is

also beneficial when ceilings of any large office building or commercial

structure incorporating translucent concrete. Greater day lighting means

less electrical lighting, less energy use, less cost, less energy-related

emissions.

Sidewalks poured with translucent concrete could be made with lighting

underneath, creating lit walkways which would enhance safety, and also

encourage foot travel where previously avoided at night.

The use of translucent concrete in an outer wall of an indoor stairwell

would provide illumination in a power outage, resulting in enhanced safety.

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Since it is a great insulating material that protects against outdoor extreme

temperatures, that means it can shut out heat or cold without shutting the

building off from daylight.

Disadvantages

The main disadvantage is these concrete is very expensive because of

the raw material (optical fibers).

Casting of translucent concrete block is difficult for the labour so special

skilled person is required.

The complex manufacturing process of this product eliminates the

possibility of using it on site.

5.6 Applications of Translucent Concrete

Some of the possible applications for translucent concrete are spread over

several areas creating new ways to various products such as:

Translucent concrete blocks suitable for floors, pavements and load-

bearing walls.

Facades, interior wall cladding and dividing walls based on thin panels.

Partitions wall and it can be used where the sunlight does not reach

properly.

In furniture for the decorative and aesthetic purpose.

Light fixtures.

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Light sidewalks at night.

Increasing visibility in dark subway stations.

Lighting indoor fire escapes in the event of a power failure.

Illuminating speed bumps on roadways at night.

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References

TOPIC 1

Shah, S. (1981). Ferrocement in construction. Retrieved April 15, 2014 from

http://www.concreteconstruction.net/

Sakthivel, P.B.,Jagannathan, A. (2013) Ferrocement Construction

Technology and its Applications – A Review. Retrieved April 16, 2014 from

http://www.civil.mrt.ac.lk/conference/ICSECM_2011/SEC-11-88.pdfs

Desai, J.A. (2011) Ferrocement – the best fire resistant material of

construction. Retrieved April 21,2014 from

http://www.jadferrocements.net/Ferrocement%20surpasses%20fire.pdf

Myhouseconstruction.com. (2012) What is ferrocement? [Website] Retrieved

April 19, 2014 from http://www.myhouseconstruction.com/what-is-

ferrocement/

J. A. Desai Pvt. Ltd. Products-Ferrocement Applications. [Website] Retrieved

April 17, 2014 from http://www.jadferrocements.net/application.html

Wikipedia.com (2014) Ferrocement. [Website] Retrieved April 16, 2014 from

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferrocement#Construction

Diagrams:

Fig 1, Fig 2- http://www.slideshare.net/PrasanthiNelloor/ferrocement

Fig 3- http://oasisdesign.net/images/img_book/WSfigFCSectionPaulB_w4.png

Fig 4- http://ferrocementtanks.50webs.com/

TOPIC 2

Wafa, F.F. (1990). Properties and Applications of Fiber Reinforced Concrete.

Retrieved on 13/4/2014 from

http://www.kau.edu.sa/Files/320/Researches/52453_22760.pdf

Brown, R., Shukla, A., and Natarajan, K.R. (2002). Fiber Reinforcement of

Concrete Structures. Retrieved 13/4/2014 from

http://www.uritc.uri.edu/media/finalreportspdf/536101.pdf

31

Jain, D. and Kothari, A. (2012). Hair Fiber Reinforced Concrete. Retrieved on

15/4/2014 from http://www.isca.in/rjrs/archive/iscsi/21.ISCA-ISC-2011-7EngS-

12.pdf

Fiber Reinforced Concrete Association (2007). Retrieved on 15/4/2014 from

http://www.fiberreinforced.org/pages/applications.aspx

Aggeliki, K. (2011). Basics Of Fiber Reinforced Concrete. Retrieved on

16/4/2014 from

http://www.brighthubengineering.com/concrete-technology/47712-basics-of-

fiber-reinfor ced-concrete/

Aggeliki, K. (2011). Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete. Retrieved on 16/4/2014

from http://www.brighthubengineering.com/concrete-technology/52076-steel-

fiber-reinforced-concrete/?cid=parsely_rec

Stewols India(P) LTD (2011). Retrieved on 17/4/2014 from

http://www.stewols.com/SFRC-Concrete/slope-stabilization.html

Diagrams:

Fig 1- http://www.brighthubengineering.com/concrete-technology/52076-steel-

fiber-reinforced-concrete/

Fig 2- http://www.docstoc.com/docs/102741957/Fiber-Reinforced-Concrete---

PDF

Fig 3- http://www.slideshare.net/ravishekhar123/fiber-reinforced-concrete-frc

(Page 6)

Fig 4- http://www.slideshare.net/ravishekhar123/fiber-reinforced-concrete-frc

(Page 17)

Fig 5- http://www.fiberconfiber.com/concrete.html

Fig 6- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glass_fiber

Fig 7- http://www.polytek.com/index.php?dispatch=pages.view&page_id=29

Fig 8- http://fibre.fibre2fashion.com/1364936/nylon-fibre_suppliers.html

Fig 9- https://www.concretedecor.net/decorativeconcretearticles/vol-7-no-4-

junejuly-2007/choices-in-fiber-reinforcement/

Fig 10- http://www.aplaceofsense.com/2008/05/bamboo-reinforced-

concrete.html

32

Fig 11- http://civil-engg-world.blogspot.com/2012/11/What-Natural-Fiber-

Reinforced-Concrete.html

Fig 12- http://www.colas.co.uk/news-media/major-projects/lower-house-farm/

concrete-pavements-to-operational-yard-areas-using-fibre-reinforced-

concrete/

Fig 13-

http://www.spacemart.com/reports/Sustainable_reinforcement_for_concrete_

has_newly_discovered_benefits_999.html

Fig 14 & 15- http://www.stewols.com/SFRC-Concrete/slope-stabilization.html

Fig 16- http://www.briscover.com/how-to-look-at-the-development-of-

composite-manhole-covers/

Fig 17- http://www.hudsoncivil.com.au/products/concrete-pipe

Fig 18- http://www.construction-chemicals.basf.com/en/sustainability/Pages/

ConcreterefurbishmentoftheWemmershoekDam.aspx

Fig 19- http://www.publicworks.nsw.gov.au/water/hydraulic-structures

TOPIC 3 Wikipedia on Gypsum Concrete, (2014). Retrieved on 27/04/2014 from

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gypsum_concrete

Alpine Insulation Co., Inc (2014). Retrieved on 27/04/2014 from

http://www.alpinerocksolidfloors.com/floors_steel_deck.html

Poured Floors of N.Y. and N.J. (2008). Retrieved on 27/04/2014 from

http://www.gypsum-newyork.com/poured_floors_007.htm

Shawn, M. (2008). Gypcrete - Good or Bad. Retrieved on 27/04/2014 from

http://www.naylornetwork.com/fap-nwl/articles/?aid=16100&projid=1323

Hacker industries, Inc. (2014). Radiant Floor Heating. Retrived on 27/04/2014

from http://www.hackerindustries.com/radiant-floor-heating.shtml

Hacker industries, Inc. (2014). Firm Fill Gypsum Concrete. Retrived on

27/04/2014 from http://www.hackerindustries.com/firm-fill-gypsum-

concrete.shtml

Hacker industries, Inc. (2014). Sound Attenuation Systems. Retrived on

27/04/2014 from http://www.hackerindustries.com/sound-attenuation-

33

systems.shtml

Hacker industries, Inc. (2014). Corrugated Metal Decking. Retrived on

27/04/2014 from http://www.hackerindustries.com/corrugated-metal-

decking.shtml

Diagrams:

Fig 1- http://www.hackerindustries.com/radiant-floor-heating.shtml

Fig 2- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3526K-bgwz4 at 1.06 minutes

Fig 3- http://www.indiamart.com/buildon/gypsum-casting-powder.html

Fig 4- http://geology.com/minerals/gypsum.shtml

Fig 5- http://www.ebay.co.uk/bhp/pva-adhesive

Fig 6- http://www.boral.com.au/cementdrymixes/cemstik.asp

Fig7- http://kinzler.bibca.org/index.cfm?content=gallery&mediaID=E0C707A4-

E0CB-4EB5-D3EBA4BE380FD4A9&mode=detail&folderPath=/root/whatwedo

Fig 8- http://www.hackerindustries.com/radiant-floor-heating.shtml

Fig 9 & 10- http://www.hackerindustries.com/sound-attenuation-

systems.shtml

Fig 11- http://www.alpinerocksolidfloors.com/floors_steel_deck.html

Fig 12-

http://myconstructionphotos.smugmug.com/keyword/safety-erect/136237351_

NmbK8NX#!i=136237351&k=NmbK8NX

TOPIC 4

Idealwork.com, (2012). Stamped concrete - Features and benefits - Ideal

Work. [online] Available at: http://www.idealwork.com/Stamped-concrete-

Features-and-benefits.html [Accessed 20 Apr. 2014].

Kingsbury, L. (2013). Stamped Concrete: Advantages & Disadvantages.

[online] Available at: http://everydaylife.globalpost.com/stamped-concrete-

advantages-disadvantages-26635.html [Accessed 20 Apr. 2014].

34

Maier, C. (2013). Stamped Concrete: Advantages & Disadvantages. [online]

Available at: http://homeguides.sfgate.com/stamped-concrete-advantages-

disadvantages-83817.html [Accessed 20 Apr. 2014].

Stampedconcrete.org, (2010). Stamped Concrete - Photos, Patterns,

Designs. [online] Available at: http://www.stampedconcrete.org [Accessed 20

Apr. 2014].

Decorative Concrete Overlays. (2009). [video] Available at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJQBY9ixTiQ [Accessed 24 Apr. 2014].

BRICKFORM Inc., (2010). How to Stamp Concrete. [video] Available at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcjmleiyJU8 [Accessed 24 Apr. 2014].

Concretenetwork.com, (1999). Stamped Concrete Pictures - Gallery - The

Concrete Network. [online] Available at:

http://www.concretenetwork.com/photo-gallery/stamped-concrete_34/

[Accessed 24 Apr. 2014].

TOPIC 5

Materialproject.org, (2012). Translucent concrete - MaterialProject.org, the

free architectural material catalog. [online] Available at:

http://www.materialproject.org/wiki/Translucent_concrete#Material_propertie

[http://impactlightinginc.com/pdf/fiber_concrete_transparet_wall.pdf]

[http://www.ijsrp.org/research-paper-1013/ijsrp-p2283.pdf]

Materialproject.org, (2012). Translucent concrete - MaterialProject.org, the

free architectural material catalog. [online] Available at:

http://www.materialproject.org/wiki/Translucent_concrete#Definition

[Accessed 25 Apr. 2014]

Illumin.usc.edu, (2012). Illumin - Translucent Concrete: An Emerging Material.

[online] Available at: http://illumin.usc.edu/printer/245/translucent-concrete-

an-emerging-material/

Victoria Bailey, Translucent Concrete, published on MEEN 3344-001, 11:00-11:50 MWF

http://www.materialproject.org/wiki/Translucent_concrete

http://www.lucon.de/en

http://www.lucem.de/index.php?id=156&L=1

35

http://www.litracon.hu/

https://www.google.com/patents/EP1947069A1?

cl=en&dq=translucent+concrete&hl=en&sa=X&ei=NnsCUo-

https://www.google.com/patents/EP2410103A2?

cl=en&dq=translucent+concrete&hl=en&sa=X&ei=NnsCUo-

aNdDyrQfj0oDQBw&sqi=2&pjf=1&ved=0CDsQ6AEwAQ

36