School of Architecture, Building and Design Bachelor

of Quantity Surveying (HONOURS)

Assignment: Research on building material- Concrete

Name: Student Id:

Tan Kai Sin 0315213

Tan Chuu Yee 0315097

Tan Wen Hao 0313690

Section: March intake 2014

Lecturer: Pn. Mokhtar Hasmanira

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Introduction

Concretes are now commonly used in our buildings. However, there are several type of

concretes produced by mixing difference ingredients and using difference type of

technologies. Each type of concrete carries out its own function and applications.

Therefore, in order to understand more about the building materials, a research report is

prepared. The concretes that be focused in this report are prestressed concrete, precast

concrete, reinforced concrete, ready mix concrete, terrazzo and urbanite concrete.

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Table of content

Cover Page------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1

Introduction------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2

Content------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 3

Prestressed Concrete----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4-

7

Precast Concrete--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8-11

Reinforced Concrete--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12-

13

Ready-mix Concrete--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14-18

Terrazzo------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19-

23

Urbanite Concrete------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 24-25

Reference Link---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26-27

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Prestressed Concrete

Prestressed concrete double tee roof slabImages obtained from http://www.archiexpo.com/prod/alfanar/prestressed-concrete-double-tee-roof-slabs-

89130-915174.html [Accessed 25 Apr. 2014]

Definition

Prestressed concrete is basically concrete in which initial and permanent stresses of

such magnitude and distribution are deliberately introduced that the stresses due to

dead weight and externally applied loads are counteracted to a desired degree. 

Prestressing is achieved by tensioning the tendon then transferring its tensile stress to

concrete as compressive stress called as Prestress. (Structure-structural-

software.blogspot.com, 2014)

General Information

Prestressed Concrete is a technique that greatly increases load bearing strength of

concrete beams. The reinforcing steel in the bottom part of the beam, which will be

subjected to tensile forces when in service, is placed in tension prior to the concrete

being poured around it. Once the concrete has hardened, the tension of the reinforcing

steel is released, placing a built-in compressive force on the concrete. When loads are

applied, the reinforcing steel takes on more stress and the compressive force in the

concrete is reduced, but does not become a tension force. Since the concrete is always

under compression, it is less subject to cracking and failure.

It is a method for overcoming concrete’s natural weakness in tension. Prestressed

concrete can be used to produce beams, floors, bridges with a longer span than is

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practical with ordinary reinforced concrete. Prestressing tendons are used to provide a

clamping load which produces a compressive stress the balance the tensile stress that

the concrete compression member would otherwise experience a bending load.

(Cement.org, 2014)

Prestress concrete beamImages obtained from http://www.archiexpo.com/prod/prestasi-concrete-sdn-bhd/prestressed-concrete-t-

beams-56829-126833.html [Accessed 25 Apr. 2014]

Applications

Prestress can be applied to all concrete structures subjected to direct tension, bending

or impact stresses. Prestress is applied to bridge girders, long span beams, tanks, forge

hammer foundations. It is applied to bomb shelters and pressure vessel in atomic

reactors. It is advantageously used in Railway sleepers, Electric poles and in pressure

pipes. Also, it could be applied to any material such as steel, timber, etc.

(Psakthikumaran.hpage.in, 2014)

Advantages/Disadvantages

For the advantages, it includes crack control and lower construction costs for the

project. Moreover, it is strong in for using in situations where tension is used.

For the disadvantages, the availability of builders experienced with work of prestressing

is very less. Besides, Initial equipment cost for prestressing is very high. The cost of

high strength of materials is high. Moreover, the availability of Engineers experienced

with prestressing work is very less. Furthermore, Prestressed sections are brittle

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because high tensile steel is used. All High strength steels have higher carbon content.

Slender sections are difficult to transport. Lastly, prestressed concrete sections are less

fire resistant.

Sustainability

Prestressed concrete uses much less materials than reinforced concrete, so that the

savings can reach 40% of the overall mass. Its longer spans, thinner and lighter

elements allow a reduction in number of piles, height of buildings, consumption of

energy in freight and handling, therefore CO2 emissions.

Illustrations of prestressed concrete beam

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Image obtained from http://fabricalo.net/index.php/comment-fabriquer-du-beton-

precontraint/ [Accessed 25 Apr. 2014].

Image obtained from http://theconstructor.org/structural-engg/pcd/classification-of-prestressed-concrete/15/ [Accessed 25 Apr. 2014].

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Precast Concrete

Image obtained from http://atlasalshemal.com/?portfolio=praesent-commodo-cursus [Accessed 25 Apr. 2014].

Definition

It is a construction material made from casting concrete into reusable form which is later

cured in a controlled environment, then transported to the construction site and lifted

into place. Precast concrete is made from precast stone as it is mixed with fine

aggregate.

General Information

Precast concrete systems combine structural and architectural components to create

long-lasting buildings and structures. Precast concrete product is a factory-made piece

manufactured with concrete and which, later, together with other pieces, will become

part of a larger structure. Precast concrete elements are prepared, cast and hardened

at specially equipped plants with a permanent location. Once a precast concrete is

produced and all the undertaken quality controls satisfactory, the unit is stored until

delivery. It is then transported for use at another site. (Cement.org, 2014)

Properties

Precast concrete products are manufactured from a mix of raw materials, including sand

and gravel aggregates, pulverized fuel ash (PFA), Cement, Limestone dust, Crushed

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rock and Inert pigments. Precast concrete product in a range of colors, sizes and

finishes.

Advantages/Disadvantages

For the advantages, precast concrete slabs are usually the correct size as it is

manufactured off site. Moreover, precast concrete saves a lot of time on site as it is

manufactured off site. It also saves a lot of space on site as pre-cast concrete is usually

on site when required. In addition, precast concrete saves money in terms of labor on

site as pre-cast concrete can usually be assembled by semi-skilled operatives.

(Answers.com, 2014)

For the disadvantages, precast concrete is lacks design and dimension flexibility as the

manufactures may only have fixed shapes and sizes. Precast concrete may also affect

the construction program as the delivery on site may not always be on time. Besides,

precast concrete may incur addition financial costs as delivery on site may not always

be on time. Lastly, precast concrete allows for a very small margin for error as the

incorrect dimensions of pre-cast concrete may result in changing the entire design.

Sustainability

Precast concrete offers high durability and strength as well as thermal mass, which

contributes to increased energy efficiency. Precast systems use locally derived

materials, and can incorporate recycled supplementary cementations materials like fly

ash and slag cement, one of the key reasons why they are often used in sustainable or

“green” buildings. (Continuingeducation.construction.com, 2014)

Aesthetical Value

A number of aesthetic benefits are possible with the use of precast concrete facades.

Among the visual considerations outlined is the use of integral color throughout the

precast slabs. In many typical applications, the use of pigmentation is isolated to an

exterior portion and sandwiched against the uncolored grey cement, which typically

comprises the interior. Integral color affords some advantages in design expression.

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Maintenance

1. After a building or structure is erected, it should be cleaned as required.

2. Precast expands and contracts. Ensure the precast joints are properly sealed.

3.The precast structure should be power-washed every four to six years to maintain its

original appearance.

4. If pigment is used in the manufacture of the precast units, a non-acid cleaning

treatment is recommended. (www.intrigue.co.nz, 2014)

Precast Concrete Type AImage obtained from http://www.constructionweekonline.com/article-17403-precast-takes-the-lead/

#.U10G9_mnons [Accessed 25 Apr. 2014].

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Precast Concrete Type BImage obtained from http://latuxdbd.com/blog/2013/12/why-choose-precast-concrete/ [Accessed 25 Apr.

2014].

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Precast Concrete Type CImage obtained from http://formworkblog.com/public/1652 [Accessed 25 Apr. 2014].

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Reinforced Concrete

Definition:

Reinforced concrete is concrete that mixed with very strong materials that increase the

strength under tension of the concrete, making it less likely to fail (McMahon, M.2014).

Nowadays, reinforced concrete is one of the most common and famous building

materials in the world for both of the entire building and the key structural elements that

need to be able to bear up extensive stress. In addition, reinforced concrete is mix with

two materials act together in resisting forces. There were reinforcing-rods, bars, or

mesh-absorbs the tensile, shear.

Application on reinforced concrete

Reinforced concrete can be classified as precast or cast in place concrete. Its uses as

designing and implementing the most efficient floor system is to creating optimal

building structures. As research, without the reinforced concrete that the construction

modern structures with concrete material would not be possible sustain.

Type of reinforced concrete

According to concrete technology, there are different types of reinforced concrete which

are Glass fibre reinforced concrete (GFRC), Steel fibre reinforced concrete (SFRC) and

Ferro concrete.

Ferro concrete

As the specific type of reinforced concrete, it’s known as Ferro concrete. Based on the

Ferro concrete, these concrete is with metal bars, plates or grids. The other materials

involved as plastics, fibre and glasses. It does can also make the building stronger.

Glass fibre reinforced concrete (GFRC)

These concrete was successfully used since the last 25 years for concrete

reinforcement. In addition, Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete, also known as GFRC or

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GRC, is a type of fibre reinforced concrete. Glass fibre concretes are mainly used in

exterior building frontage panels and as architectural precast concrete. Slightly similar

materials are fibre cement siding and cement boards.

Steel fibre reinforced concrete (SFRC)

Steel fibre reinforced concrete is superior resistance to cracking and crack propagation

(Nguyen Van.C). Nowadays, industrial floor and pavements are major applications for

steel-fibre-reinforced concrete.

Physical characteristic of reinforced concrete

The physical characteristics that impact reinforced concrete are concrete that control

the definition of gases, such as CO2, O2 or liquid (mainly water) through it pores and

the diffusion of ions, such as CL-, dissolved in the pore water (Vagelis.G, 1991).

Advantages of reinforced concrete

It is a structural material and widely used in many types of structures. It is inexpensive

with steel if economically deliberate and executed. There are some advantages which

are it has a relatively high compressive strength, better conflict to fire then steel, long

service life with lower maintain cost, can be cast to take the shape required.

Disadvantages of reinforced concrete

There were also summarized the disadvantages of reinforced concrete which are low

tensile strength of about one-tenth of its compressive strength, cost of the forms used to

cast of concrete placed in forms. In addition, the reinforced concrete needs also mixing,

casting and remedial and the cracks develop in concrete due to decline and the

application of live loads.

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Ready-mix concrete

Definition:

Ready-mix concrete is concrete that is manufactured in a factory or batching plant,

according to a set recipe, and then delivered to a work site, by truck mounted in-transit

mixers. In addition, ready-mix concrete are low cost, robustness and its ability to be

customize for different application, ready-mix concrete is one of the most adaptable and

popular building materials.

Application of ready-mix concrete

Ready-mix concrete is produced under factory conditions and certifications a close

control of all operations of manufacture and conveyance of fresh concrete. This

technique is useful in congested site or diverse work Places and saves the consumer

from botheration of attaining, storage and handling of concrete materials.

Type and special function of different type of ready-mix concrete

There are a few examples of ready-mix concrete technologies with special properties

and performance.

1. Architectural and Decorative Concrete

- It does provide a structural function, as well as an aesthetic or decorative

finish. It can offer smooth, rough surfaces or textures. As well as a variety or

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range of colours.

2. Rapid-setting concrete

- Design to enhance early strength development, this concrete allows fast

formwork removal, accelerated construction sequencing and rapid repair for

jobs as roads and airport runways. Those concrete normally used in low

temperature (5-10/C) concreting during winter.

-

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3. Fibre-reinforced concrete

- Its design with micro or macro fibres can be used either for structural

applications, where the fibre can theoretically substitute for steel rebar

reinforced or for reducing shrinkage.

4. Fluid-fill concrete

- Fluid mortar or concrete shortens the process of laying pipe and cable by

surrounding the pipe or cable with a tightly packed shell that provides

protection from the elements, avoids settling, and enables crews to work

quickly.

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5. Roller-compacted concrete

- Compressed in place and cured, roller-compacted concrete is a zero slump

concrete with the abrasion resistance to withstand high velocity water and

making it the material of choice for spillways and other infrastructure subject

to high flow conditions. It represents an inexpensive solution in terms of cost

and durability when compared to asphalt.

6. Previous concrete

- It’s has the unique design mix, previous concrete is a highly porous material

that allows water, rainwater to filter through and reduces flooding and heat

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concentration by up to 4C and its also help to prevent skidding on wet roads.

7. Antibacterial concrete

- This concrete controls bacteria growth and is used to help maintain clean

environments in structures such as hospitals, laboratories, and farms.

Disadvantages of ready-mix concrete

The materials are batched at a central plant, and the mixing begins at that plant, so the

traveling time from the plant to the site is critical over longer distances. Some sites are

just too far away, though this is usually a commercial rather than a technical issue.

Advantages of ready-mix concrete

The material has the benefit of speedy construction through continuous mechanized

operation leading to economy. The lower labor and supervisory cost assured. Then, the

multi-transportation of raw materials for concrete is eliminated and it’s also controlled

W/C ratio and the close quality control of batching reduces variability of the desired

properties of hardened concrete.

Photo of ready-mix concrete

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Terrazzo

The word of " Terrazzo" is derived from the Italian “Terrace” or “Terrazza” and by

definition over the centuries: “A form of mosaic flooring made by embedding small

pieces of marble in mortar and polishing.” Today, the National Terrazzo and Mosaic

Association (NTMA) defines this traditional material as follows: “Terrazzo consists of

marble, granite, onyx or glass chips in portland cement, modified portland cement or

resinous matrix. The terrazzo is poured, cured, ground and polished. Terrazzo can be

poured in place or precast.” (The National Terrazzo & Mosaic Association, Inc. , 1999)

Application of Terrazzo

Terrazzo can be used in indoor and outdoor design. Terrazzo is used for floors,

counters, stairs, bases, tabletops and so on.

Type of Terrazzo

According to NTMA there are 6 type of terrazzo which are epoxy terrazzo, sand cushion

terrazzo, bonded terrazzo, monolithic terrazzo, polyacrylate terrazzo and rustic terrazzo.

Epoxy terrazzo

Epoxy terrazzo is the best thin set system and among other thin set system, it is the

most strongest and durable. It is not recommended for exterior use because it is not

breathable, thus, it cannot stand with the harsh weather outside.

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Example of Epoxy terrazzo.Images obtained from http://ntma.com/epoxy-terrazzo/ [Accessed 20 Apr. 2014]Sand Cushion Terrazzo

Sand Cushion Terrazzo is a cement matrix topping underbed with wire reinforcing,

isolation sheet, and sand layer system for interior floor use. (The National Terrazzo &

Mosaic Association, Inc. , n.d) It can prevent the mirroring effect on the surface of

flooring. Therefore, it is ideally used for incorporating design patterns and multiple

colors surface area.

Example of Sand Cushion TerrazzoImage obtained from http://ntma.com/sand-cushion-terrazzo/ [Accessed 20 Apr. 2014]

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Bonded Terrazzo

Bonded Terrazzo can be used for interior and external applications. It can become slip-

resistance by acid-washed. Moreover, it is breathable, so it does not effected by vapor

transmission. However, compare to sand cushion terrazzo, it does not has that many

color and it takes longer time to cured than other types of Terrazzo. (Cabella Stone

Corp., 2014)

Example of Bonded TerrazzoImage obtain from http://ntma.com/bonded-terrazzo/[Accessed 20 Apr. 2014]Monolithic Terrazzo

Monolithic Terrazzo is a type of terrazzo that "directly applied on a concrete surface

instead of a mortar bed" (WebFinance, Inc., 2014) Monolithic terrazzo is the most

economical of all terrazzo systems and it is high quality and durable especially if used in

applications like large retail stores, shopping malls and schools. (Cabella Stone Corp.,

2014)

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Example of Monolithic TerrazzoImage obtained from http://www.cjamescollection.com/Floorazzo.htm [Accessed 20 Apr. 2014]

Polyacrylate Terrazzo

For polyacrylate, an acrylic additive is incorporated into the mixture of modified cement

which is to allow the cement to be poured as thickly or as thinly, up to one and a half

inch thick. Polyacrylate Terrazzo can be used in outdoor because it is breathable.

(Cabella Stone Corp., 2014)

Example of Polyacrylate TerrazzoImage obtained from http://www.concretedecor.net/decorativeconcretearticles/vol-7-no-4-junejuly-2007/new-polyacrylate-terrazzo/[Accessed 20 Apr. 2014]

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Rustic Terrazzo

Rustic terrazzo mostly used in outdoor applications. It has a rough surface due to slip-

resistance purpose. The aggregate that used for Rustic Terrazzo are quartz, granite,

quartzite,and silica pebbles.

Example of Rustic TerrazzoImages obtained from http://ntma.com/venetian-rustic-terrazzo/[Accessed 20 Apr. 2014]

Advantage of Terrazzo

Various color, durable, Nonporous finish does not support bacterial growth, mold, or

mildew, low maintenance, Abrasion resistance, and eco-friendly.

Disadvantage of Terrazzo

Sensitive to harsh cleaners, all-purpose cleaners and soaps containing water-solubles.

Avoid sweeping compounds containing oil as it may permanently discolor the materials.

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Urbanite Concrete

Urbanite concrete is "a term that refers to broken pieces of unwanted concrete leftover

from a demolition project. " (Tate, 2014)

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Urbanite ConcreteImage obtained from http://apdiggs.wordpress.com/category/urbanite-2/ [Accessed 20 Apr. 2014]

Application of Urbanite Concrete

According to Kathleen Story, 2013, urbanite concrete can be used as foundation and

base of a building. Besides, it also can used to be building walls, patios, walkways,

planters, benches, fire pits, flower beds, stepping stones and so on.

Wall that built from Urbanite ConcreteImage obtained from http://setinstone-landscaping.com/portfolio/broken-concrete-urbanite/ [Accessed 20 Apr. 2014]

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Pathways built from Urbanite concreteImages obtained from http://setinstone-landscaping.com/portfolio/broken-concrete-urbanite/ [Accessed 20

Apr. 2014]

Properties of Urbanite Concrete

As urbanite is known as recycled concrete, therefore, it carries out the same properties

as concrete. According to Cement Sustainability Initiative, 2012, concrete is strong,

durable, fire-resistance, reduce temperature swing and apply albedo effect.

Advantage of Urbanite Concrete

Urbanite concrete carry a lot of advantages. For instance, it is non-biodegradable. Next,

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it can be cut in virous sizes and shapes. Besides, it is cost- saving and eco-friendly

because it is recycled. (Story, 2013)

Disadvantage of Urbanite Concrete

The disadvantages of urbanite concrete are hard to haul because it can be very heavy.

Moreover, it does not has virous designs. (Story, 2013)

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Reference link

Merriam-webster.com,. (2014). Reinforced concrete - Definition and More from the Free Merriam-Webster Dictionary. Retrieved 2014, April 25, from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reinforced%20concrete

Slideshare.net,. (2014). Structure Reinforced Concrete. Retrieved 2014, April 25, from http://www.slideshare.net/MatNik1/structure-reinforced-concrete

wiseGEEK,. (2014). What Is Reinforced Concrete? (with picture). Retrieved 2014, April 25, from http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-reinforced-concrete.htm

The National Terrazzo & Mosaic Association, Inc. (1999). Types and System. Retrieved 2014, April 20, from http://ntma.com/pharaohs-dance/terrazzo-types-systems/

Cabella Stone Corp., (2014). Terrazzo Flooring. Retrieved 2014, April 20 from http://www.terrazzotoday.com/what-is-terrazzo/terrazzo-flooring/

WebFinance, Inc., (2014). Monolithic Terrazzo. Retrieved 2014, April 20 from http://www.dictionaryofconstruction.com/definition/monolithic-terrazzo.html

Tate, Sarah (2014). Urbanite: Repurposing Old Concrete. Retrieved 2014, April 20 from http://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete/demolition/urbanite-recycled-concrete.html

Story, Kathleen (2013). Green Build with Urbanite, Broken Concrete, Retrieved 2014, April 20, from http://www.examiner.com/article/green-build-with-urbanite-broken-concrete

World Business Council for Sustainable Development (n.d). Properties of Concrete. Retrieved 2014, April 20 from http://www.wbcsdcement.org/index.php/key-issues/sustainability-with-concrete/properties-of-concrete

Answers.com, (2014). What are advantages and disadvantages of precast Concrete?. [online] Retrieved 2014, April 25, from http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_are_advantages_and_disadvantages_of_precast_Concrete

Cement.org, (2014). Precast/Prestressed Concrete. Retrieved 2014, April 25, from http://www.cement.org/think-harder-concrete-/buildings-structures/design-aids/precast-prestressed-concrete

Continuingeducation.construction.com, (2014). Style and Sustainability of Precast Concrete | Sponsored by Holcim (US) Inc. | Originally published in the November 2012 issue of Architectural Record | Architectural Record's Continuing Education Center. [online] Retrieved 2014, April 25, from http://continuingeducation.construction.com/article.php?L=323&C=949

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Psakthikumaran.hpage.in, (2014). WELCOME TO CIVILIZION. [online] Retrieved 2014, April 25, from http://psakthikumaran.hpage.in/pre-stressed-concrete_37967137.html

Structure-structural-software.blogspot.com, (2014). Definition of Prestressed Concrete. [online] Retrieved 2014, April 25, from http://structure-structural-software.blogspot.com/2011/02/definition-of-prestressed-concrete.html

www.intrigue.co.nz, l. (2014). Maintenance of Precast Concrete. [online] Wilcoprecast.co.nz. Retrieved 2014, April 25, from http://www.wilcoprecast.co.nz/maintenance/html

Lootahgroup.com,. (2014). What is Ready Mix Concrete Defination Defining. Retrieved 2014, April 25, from http://www.lootahgroup.com/html/nrc_pro_what.php

Answers.com,. (2014). What are advantages and disadvantages of ready mix concrete?. Retrieved 2014, April 25, from http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_are_advantages_and_disadvantages_of_ready_mix_concrete?#slide=6

Cemexusa.com,. (2014). Architectural/Decorative Concrete | Types of Concrete | Concrete | Products & Services | CEMEX USA. Retrieved 2014, April 25,, from http://www.cemexusa.com/ProductsServices/ArchitecturalDecorativeConcrete.aspx

Heidelbergcement.com,. (2014). Ready-mix Concrete - hanson - HeidelbergCement in Malaysia. Retrieved 2014, April 25,, from http://www.heidelbergcement.com/my/en/hanson/products/rmx_concrete/index.htm

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