What are the Differences Between High Strength and High Performance Concrete?

High strength concrete and high-performance concrete are not synonymous because strength and performance of concrete are different properties of concrete. High-strength concrete is defined based on its compressive strength at a given age whereas high performance concrete is defined based on performance criteria namely: high durability, high strength, and high workability. High-performance concrete is defined […]

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Sketches/ Maps of Concrete Cracks Observed in Visual Inspections

Sketches or maps or pattern of different types of cracks which are commonly developed in concrete structures is considerably crucial to recognize in order to determine the type and cause of cracks during visual inspection. This would also reduce time and effort needed to specify the reason of crack initiation. In this article, sketches of […]

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Steam Curing of Concrete-Methods and Advantages

Steam curing of concrete is the method of curing the concrete elements in water vapor. This curing is performed either under atmospheric pressure or high-pressure steam. The steam curing method is preferred where there is a need for accelerated strength gain and the concrete requires additional heat to perform hydration. This is especially performed in […]

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High-Performance Concrete Applications in Civil Engineering Constructions

There are several applications of high-performance concrete in the field of civil engineering constructions due to its superior properties such as high strength and good durability. The high-performance concrete has been used in the construction of bridges, hydropower structures, pavements, bridges, high-density radiation shielding, mass concrete projects, offshore platforms noise and vibration dampening, tunnels, and […]

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Cantilevered Stairs – Construction, Advantages

Cantilevered stairs are a staircase system in which one end of each individual step is connected to the wall by means of steel pins of bolts. Finally constructed steps give a floating stair appearance. Cantilevered stairs can be constructed using different materials hence creating different impressions. They can be made out of stainless steel, woods, […]

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High-Performance Concrete: Compositions, and Features

High-performance concrete (HPC) is produced by careful selection and proportioning of its constituents namely cement, sand, gravel, cementitious materials such fly ash; silica fume; and slag, and chemical admixtures for instance high range water reducing admixtures. The strength and durability of the high-performance concrete exceed that of ordinary concrete. Therefore, the compositions of high-performance concrete […]

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Top Unique and Creative Staircase Design Ideas

Design of staircase are now performed in ways different from conventional construction ideas. New principles of modern architecture are now applied on the design of staircase. Instead of simply considering staircase just as a connection between two floors, it is made with utmost aesthetics so that it complements the building interior. Some of the top […]

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Tractors as a Construction Equipment

A tractor is a versatile earth moving equipment and finds many uses at a construction site. While its primary purpose is to pull or push loads, it is also used as a mount for many types of accessories, such as front-end shovels, bulldozers and others. There are types and sizes to fit almost any job […]

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What is Operating Cost of an Equipment?

The operating cost of construction equipment comes into play only when the machine starts to operate. The operating cost is dependent on the period of operation (Hours), location of the construction site, the site conditions under which the machine is operated, the type and category of the equipment. Different cost that comes under operating costs […]

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Construction Equipment – Buy, Rent or Lease?

When mobilizing your construction equipment for a project site, the enigma whether to buy, rent or lease must be tackled in a very sane and judicious way. Important questions pertaining to the duration of the need for equipment, the number of hours it’d be working at sites and geographical suitability must be answered to come […]

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Different Sources of Water in Concrete

Every concrete design follows a specific amount of water quantity. But there are some important sources of water other than the designed that can contribute to an increase in water content of the concrete. This unknown water content is detrimental to the strength of the concrete. Important water sources that contribute to the water content […]

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What are the Infiltration Galleries?

An infiltration gallery is a subsurface source of water used for a water supply system whose structure is like a horizontal drain that is positioned below the water table so that it collects the groundwater. It collects the subsurface sources of water. The horizontal drain can be made out of an open jointed pipe or […]

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Common Wall Materials: Compositions, Properties, and Applications

There are different materials with different composition and properties which are used to construct wall. The functions or duties of the wall, which are either load bearing or non-loading bearing, determine its construction materials types such as various types of bricks, blocks, partition boards etc. The load bearing wall is part of structural system of […]

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Road Studs – Types, Requirement, and Placement

The road studs are retro-reflective supplements used in the road to improve visibility at night time and adverse weather conditions. Road studs serve the purpose of speed arrestor before junction/crossings/end of the flyover section wherein road crashes are prevalent. In this article we discuss the types, requirement, placement, and spacing of road studs on different […]

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How to Replace Damaged Concrete Members in Structures?

The replacement of damaged concrete elements requires demolition and removal of existing structure elements and replace them with new member. The demolition process is carried out after proper jacking is applied to relieve imposed loads on the damaged structural member. Great care should be practiced to avoid damaging existing steel bars if present. This measure […]

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7 Types of Road Markings as per IRC-35

Road markings are a psychological barrier and an important component of a highway, which functions in guiding and controlling the traffic. It also channelizes the pedestrians and cyclists movement into a safe location ensuring smooth and orderly flow of traffic and for promoting road safety. In this article, we discuss 7 types of road marking […]

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What is Velocity and Acceleration of a Fluid Flow?

Velocity and Acceleration are vector functions that are used to explain the kinematics of fluid flow. Bot velocity and acceleration have their respective components in three directions, i.e x, y, and z. Both the components are dependent on the space-co-ordinates (x,y, and z)and time ‘t’. In this article, expression for velocity and acceleration are explained […]

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Supplemental Structural Members: Constructions, and Applications

Supplemental structural members are new columns, beams, braces, and walls which are constructed to support damaged structures. The provision of structural elements is a strengthening technique by which the original strength is restored, and increase the capacity of the structure to support greater loads or resist different environmental conditions. This rehabilitation technique is frequently used […]

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10 Precautions for Effective Grouting in Tensioning Ducts

The complete procedure of the grouting of pre/post tensioned cable ducts, its materials, equipement and properties is explained in detial in the below article. Grouting of Pre/Post Tensioned Cable Ducts The important 10 precautions to be taken care of while for effective grouting in tensioning ducts are explained below-Optimum Temperature 1. Optimum Temperature The optimum […]

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Grouting of Pre/Post Tensioned Cable Ducts

Grouting in the post-tensioned cables in the post or prestressed concrete is carried out to provide permanent protection to the steel cables against corrosion. It also develops a bond between cables and surrounding concrete which fills the duct space and prevents water collection and freezing. In this article we discuss, materials, equipment, properties, and procedure […]

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What is Ownership Cost of an Equipment?

Ownership cost is defined as the total cost related to the construction equipment in order to own it. This cost is irrespective of whether the equipment is employed or not. Ownership cost is a combination of different costs like Initial cost, interest cost, salvage value, insurance cost, storage cost and taxes. Each cost is breifly […]

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Population Forecasting for Water Supply System

Population forecasting is defined as the method of determining the expected population for a particular design period of a water supply system with the help of the study and analysis of future events and available records. The population is an important parameter that is determined for the design of the water system of a particular […]

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8 Causes of Premature Failure of Repaired Concrete Structures

The performance of repaired concrete structure is still poor. This is because many repaired concrete structures premature failures disregard of developments and enhancements in repair materials and techniques. As a result, the repair work leads to waste of time and money. Several researches have been conducted to specify causes of premature ­­­failure in repaired concrete. […]

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Step for Concrete Damage Repairs in Reinforced Concrete Structures

There are certain steps that need to be considered in order to decide whether defected concrete need repair or not, and specify proper repair technique and material if repairing is needed. These repair steps would ensure successful repairing process that is carried out efficiently and effectively without waste of time and money. Repair of concrete […]

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11 Factors Affecting the Selection of Repair Materials

There are number of factors such as strength, durability, thermal coefficient of thermal expansion, permeability, low dry shrinkage, chemical and electrical properties, curing, and cost that must be considered to select the most appropriate, compatible, cost effective repair materials. This ensure a successful and durable repair work that provides the designated strength regain. Nonetheless, the […]

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Quality Control and Quality Assurance of Concrete Repair

Quality control and quality assurance in concrete repair works are essential to regain lost strength in concrete due to cracks or other damages. Concrete repairs are required when structural members get damaged. The reason for damages can be due to over-stressing, poor construction practices, environmental exposures, chemical attacks or with age of concrete member etc. […]

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Shrinkage Reducing Concrete Admixture: Mechanism, and Applications

Shrinkage-reducing concrete admixture promote expansion of the concrete at about the same volume that normal drying shrinkage is contracting it. The net change in length of the hardened concrete is small enough to prevent shrinkage cracks. Shrinkage reducing concrete mixture is typically comprised of polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether or similar composition. When such admixture is added […]

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Reinforcement Repair: Methods, and Procedures

Repair of corroded or deteriorated steel reinforcement and prestressing stands is one of the techniques by which deteriorated structural elements are rehabilitated to regain its original load carrying capacity. Corrosion of reinforcements is frequent due to chemical attacks, fire, and accidental cutting. After the cause of steel damage is determined, it can be repaired by […]

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Surface Treatments for Walls, Roofs, and Floors: Types and Purposes

Many types of surface treatment systems are available for the treatment of horizontal surface such as roofs and vertical surfaces for instance wall buildings constructed from various construction materials such brick, stone, concrete, tarmac and slate. Penetrating sealers, surface-applied corrosion inhibitors, surface sealers, high coating, membranes, and overlays are the major types of surface treatment […]

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Water-reducing Set-retarding Admixtures: Affects, and Applications

Water-reducing and set-retarding admixtures are chemicals that slow down the initial reaction between cement and water by reducing the rate of water penetration to the cement and slowing down the growth of the hydration products. As a result, concrete stays workable longer than it would otherwise. The length of time during which a concrete remains […]

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Foundation Selection Criteria for Buildings

Selection criteria for foundation for buildings depend on two factors, i.e. factors related to ground (soil) conditions and factors related to loads from the structure. The performance of foundation is based on interface between the loadings from the structure and the supporting ground or strata. The nature and conditions of each of these varies, so, […]

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Azimuths and Bearings in Surveying-Difference & Determination

Azimuths and bearings are horizontal angles measured to represent or locate a line with respect to a meridian. Here, the important features of azimuth and bearing in surveying along with their comparison are explained briefly. What is Azimuth in Surveying? Azimuths are defined as horizontal angles that are measured from the reference meridian in the […]

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20 Advantages of High Performance Concrete in Design and Construction

There are several advantages of high performance concrete (HPC) application in building construction which are not achievable using conventional concrete. The strength, durability, resistance to chemical attack, and workability of high performance concrete are high. So, high performance concrete is superior to ordinary concrete in all properties. High performance concrete is defined as “A concrete […]

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Analysis and Design of RC Wall Footing Based on ACI 318-19

318M-19: Building Code Requirements for Concrete and Commentary The design of wall footing, which is also termed as strip footing, is based on the principles of beam action with only slight modifications. Wall footing should be designed to safely support structural or nonstructural walls and transmit and distribute the loads to the soil in such […]

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What is Salvage Value in Construction?

Salvage value is defined as an estimated or expected resale value of an asset at the end of its useful life. It is a parameter that is associated with the depreciation of the assets used in the business. Depreciation is defined as the reduction in the market value of an asset due to time, wear […]

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Corrosion Inhibiting Admixtures: Types, Dosages, and Applications

Corrosion inhibitors are admixtures that either extend the time to corrosion initiation or significantly reduce the corrosion rate of embedded metal, or both, in concrete containing chlorides in excess of the accepted corrosion threshold value for the metal in untreated concrete, as per ACI 222R. There are four common type of corrosion inhibiting admixtures, and […]

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Functions of Admixtures in Fresh and Hardened State of Concrete

admixtures (singular or combination of admixtures) are added to concrete or mortar or grout mixture to achieve or improve desired properties in the fresh or hardened state. The admixtures are added to concrete based on their functions which they are play. Retardation or acceleration of concrete setting time, reduce segregation and water to cement ratio, […]

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Factors Affecting Performance of Admixtures in Concrete

There are many factors that influence the performance of admixtures in concrete such as type of admixture, dosage, compatibility of the admixture with cement, mix design, ambient temperature, and the presence of other admixtures. These factors influence the degree of achievement of desired properties for which admixtures are introduced. Admixtures are added to concrete mixture […]

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Precast Concrete Foundations- Features and Advantages

Precast concrete foundation construction is an off-site construction technique in which the foundation units are pre-engineered and manufactured in a controlled environment. These units as are pre-engineered, their capacities or the limits are communicated with the purchaser to produce the desired unit. Some of the important features, advantages and disadvantages of pre-cast concrete foundations are […]

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Injection Grouting: Purpose, Procedure, and Field Considerations

Injection grouting is a process of filling the cracks, open joints, voids, or honeycombs, in concrete or masonry structural members, under pressure with a material that cures in place to produce the desired results like strengthening a structure and prevent water movement. Grout is a flowable plastic material and should have negligible shrinkage to fill […]

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Fire Damage Mechanism of RC Structure and Assessment Method

Fire cause concrete surface cracking and crazing, chemical decomposition, and microcracking and spalling. These impacts can significantly change the properties of structural concrete, reducing strength and durability, and altering structural behavior. Assessment and evaluation of damages caused by fire is substantially significant to specify the condition of the structure. The assessment of damages is used […]

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Non-destructive Tests on RC Structures: Basic Methods, and Purposes

Non-destructive tests (NDT) are test methods which are used to examine the hardened concrete structure for their suitability for its intended use without interfering in any way with the integrity of the material or its suitability for service. So, locating or assessment of defects in structures and checking their dimensions, thickness, and hardness are of […]

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On-site and Off-site Construction-Pros and Cons

On-site and Off-site construction techniques are widely used in the construction industry based on the objective and features of the construction project. In an on-site construction, the technique makes use of traditional construction methods in which all the works and construction activities are performed sequentially. On the other hand, in off-site construction, the building components […]

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What is Offsite Construction?

Off-site construction is a construction procedure that involves the planning, designing, fabrication, transportation of fabricated building items and its assembling on the site with great speed and a high degree of finish. This degree of precision is far better than on-site construction. The basic features, process and methods of off-site construction are explained in this […]

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Applications and Importance of Non-destructive Tests on Concrete

Non-destructive tests (NDT) are widely used and play important role in engineering projects including newly constructed and existing structures. For new structures, applications are mainly quality control or the resolution of doubts about the quality of materials or construction. Testing of existing structures is related to assessment of structural integrity or adequacy. Commonly, these tests […]

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Applications of Rice Husk Ash in Building Constructions

Rice husk ash (RHA) plays two roles in concrete constructions. The first role is using rice husk as a substitute for Portland cement which leads to the reduction of the cost of concrete, and the other role is as an admixture in the production of high strength concrete. It should be known that, that type […]

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Pigments for Concrete: Types, Purposes, and Influences

Pigments are fine dry powder or slurry or aqueous suspension that added to the concrete ingredients to produce colors, other than the normal grey color. It is added during batching as a liquid or finely divided colored inert powder. Pigments can be natural or synthetic, organic or inorganic. Synthetic pigments are more stable and color […]

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Post-Concrete Inspection and Testing: Purpose, and Applications

Post concrete inspection of concrete structures is essential to check for any damage or defects that may require repair. Immediately after stripping the formwork, all concrete members casted are carefully inspected and any defective work or small defects either removed or made good before the concrete has thoroughly hardened. Post concrete inspection involves both eye […]

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Specifications for Sewer and Manhole Bricks Based on ASTM C32

Manhole and sewer bricks manufactured from shale and clay should meet requirements of applicable codes such as ASTM C 32 in order to be able to serve its purpose properly. The purpose of sewer structure and related structures are transportation of sewage, industrial wastes, and storm water. Manhole and sewer bricks can be manufactured from […]

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Types of Reinforced Concrete Structure Inspections

There are four types of inspection for reinforced concrete structure namely: inventory, routine, detailed, and special inspections. Inventory inspection is carried out when a building becomes ready to be delivered, and it provides assurance that the concrete structure is structurally safe and fit for its designed use. So, it may identify actual and potential sources of trouble at the earliest possible stage. Routine and […]

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Casting and Curing Concrete Specimens in Field Based on ASTM C31

Casting and curing of concrete cylinder and beam specimens from representative samples of fresh concrete is crucial in building constructions. This is because the results of the tests conducted on these specimens are employed for many significant purposes. For instance, acceptance of designated concrete strength, examine adequacy of mix proportions for strength, and quality control. […]

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How to Measure Reinforcement Corrosion in Concrete Structures?

Measurement of steel reinforcement corrosion in concrete is essential to analyze the strength and durability of structure. Not only does the steel corrosion reduce the life span of the structure but also increase the cost for inspection and maintenance significantly. Currently no instrument or technique is available which can measure the extent of corrosion of steel. However, […]

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Profometer Test on Concrete Structures: Purpose, and Applications

Profometer test is a non-destructive testing technique used to detect location and size of reinforcements and concrete cover quickly and accurately. A small, portable, and handy instrument which is known as profometer or rebar locator, is used in this test. The equipment weight is less than two kgs, and works on normal batteries and thus […]

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Difference Between Pelton, Francis and Kaplan Turbines

The Pelton, Francis and Kaplan turbines are water turbines that are rotary machines which convert kinetic energy and the potential energy of the water into mechanical energy that rotates the shaft to produce electric energy. Pelton turbine was developed by Lester Allan Pelton in the year 1870. A Kaplan turbine is a water turbine that […]

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Dry Shake Hardener: Types, Applications, and Design Considerations

Dry shake hardener is a mixture of cement, aggregate, and admixture which is applied as a dry compound onto the fresh concrete surface to protect floor surface from abrasion and impact effects, provide slip resistance; color; and surface texture, and improve durability. It is applied on fresh concrete surface by hand or machineries and then […]

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