An Overview of RCC Construction Technology

In the construction trade, when we say concrete, we mean reinforced concrete. The full name is concrete reinforced cement or RCC construction. RCC (Reinforced concrete) is concrete containing steel bars or rebars, called reinforcing bars. This formulation works very well since concrete is very compressive; simple to manufacture on-site, steel is very tension-intensive and inexpensive.

What is Reinforced concrete or RCC?

Reinforced concrete (RCC) contains embedded steel bars, plates, or fibers reinforcing the material. Such materials magnify the load-carrying capacity, and because of this, RCC construction is commonly used in any building. Indeed it has become the most frequently used building material. It is one of the major developments of last decade's Real Estate Technology. Especially in the field of Construction Techonology or CONTECH.

Through concrete, reinforced structures are designed in such a way that the two components together withstand the forces applied. The concrete's compressive strength and steel's tensile strength create a strong bond to withstand certain stresses over a long time. Plain concrete is not practical in most building projects because it cannot easily withstand and endure the stresses caused by vibrations, wind, or other forces.

How does RCC construction technology differ from traditional construction methods?

RCC construction

In recent years, RCC construction has experienced advancements that offer enhanced design and higher durability. It proves to be cost-effective and provides excellent sound insulation. It incorporates advanced materials like glass, steel, concrete and more. This method is considered one of the eco-friendly construction options.

Traditional Construction

This method has been a standard for a long time that relies on natural materials, such as wood, stone and clay. The structures constructed using traditional technique varies in shape and size, which can last for several years. It creates a great deal of disruption for encircling areas and is more time-consuming.

Some of the types of projects RCC construction is well-suited include,

• Multi-story buildings

• Bridges

• Retaining walls

• Dams and more

Trends & Innovation of RCC construction

• High-Performance Concrete (HPC)

• 3D Printing in construction helps in creating RCC structures quickly and efficiently

• Robotics and automation are used in RCC construction to enhance efficiency and reduce manpower demands.

Structural Integrity

The RCC structures are perfectly crafted by engineers who prioritize factors like wind resistance, weight-bearing capability, seismic stability and more. The engineers incorporate the best safety features ensuring that the structures are safely supported and withstand the nature's effects.

Why does the RCC construction continue to dominate?

Before RCC's arrival, the existing facilities were designed using concrete. The issue that emerged was that those buildings' structural integrity collapsed, which caused the structure to collapse prematurely. The primary trigger was the lack of concrete treatment of the structure's tensile forces.

Nevertheless, it increased the durability of the building system significantly with the implementation of RCC construction. As RCC constructed structures could handle the tensile forces more effectively, it became the building standard and continued to dominate in the years that followed.

Developments in RCC concrete technology

Significant advancements in RCC concrete technology have been made over the last three decades or so. The strength and other earlier structural properties of steel reinforcement are now known as ordinary and reinforced cement concrete, and prestressed concrete has become common materials.

Subsequent work has led to the development of a range of concretes, including fiber reinforced concrete, carbon concrete, ferrocement, sulfur concrete, lightweight concrete, autoclaved cellular concrete, and high-density ready-mixed concrete, self-molded concrete, roller molded concrete, high-strength concrete, high-performance hard concrete.

Just as RCC Construction Technology, MIVAN has been ruling the Indian Construction Industry for the past decade. Check out MIVAN Construction Technology

The three main forms of reinforced cement concrete are briefly discussed here.

1. Fibre Reinforced Concrete

This concrete is used primarily for the application of both new buildings and overlays in pavements. For this purpose, there are different types of mineral, organic, and metal fibers. Prefabricated concrete systems, concrete reactor pressure vessels, blast-proof structures, machine frames, tunnel liners as well as thermal impact-resistant structures are examples of Fiber-reinforced concrete structure. This is commonly used. The thermal shock and heat spill resistance of steel fiber reinforced concrete is much higher than that of regular cement.

2. Polymer Concrete

Based on the type of monomer mix used in the concrete, polymer concrete is used. Substantially higher polymer concrete compared with plain concrete. This is used in the manufacturing of concrete tubes, concrete blocks, and tiles for concrete, tunnel supports, pre-manufactured floors for concrete, prefabricated cement structures for heavy use, desalting structures, lightweight concrete building and surface protection for cast-on-site concrete.

3. Ferrocement

Ferrocement is a type of reinforced concrete that is primarily affected by the mesh form, quantity, orientation, and strength properties. The thickness is between 2 and 3 cm, with the external cover between 2 to 3 mm. The thickness is variable.

This is used in fishing and container shipbuilding, storage of crops, biogas storage containers and digesters, fermentation tanks, refreshing towers, septic tanks, irrigation channels, drying panels for agricultural products, concrete shutters and forms, and treatment of waterproofing on RCC buildings or RB rooftops, tank or pool cover. The Material Science Group of SERC (G) has successfully used it in India for the construction of domes, large reservoirs, manhole covers, drainage units, etc.

Some of the best practices in RCC construction technology

1. Foundation

When the building's foundation is weak, then the entire structure fails or sinks. Keep in mind these pointers to ensure a solid foundation.

2. Marking and Excavating the Foundation

Be sure the foundations are properly labeled for new walls, so they are the right size and in the right place to support the wall weight. Obtain from the engineer the layout plan or centerline drawing and set the centerline of the building's longest outer wall as a reference line between the pegs driven into the ground.

3. Anti-term Treatment

Pre-construction anti-termite treatment is a procedure that applies soil treatment to a building at the early stages of its construction. Anti-termite treatment is intended to provide the building with a chemical shield against the termites in the subterranean.

4. Cemetery Vault

Cement absorbs moisture from the air readily, if it is not properly stored. The cement's binding property and strength depend on its chemical reaction capacity, which occurs in the presence of water. Therefore, cement must be shielded from heat and oxidation, as it can easily lose strength and form lumps.

Another Major Methodology used in India is Pre Cast. Check Out PreCast Cosntruction Technology!

5. Aggregates

Low-quality aggregates will result in lower concrete, which will impact the structure's durability. The existence of any of the aggregates in excessive quantities harms the concrete environment, hardening, strength, and durability.

6. Mixing concrete

Stop manual mixing of concrete. Hold amounts of water close watch when mixing. Mixing time should be a minimum of 2 minutes. Just use the Admixtures if appropriate. Dosage to admixture will be optimal for usage. We should not apply the amount more or less when mixing the concrete.

7. Compaction

Compaction involves separating the concrete from the air. It'll lessen the voids. The narrower the voids, the concrete better. Proper compaction should ensure the tightness of the water.

8. Water Management

A tight water-cement ratio is required in concrete manufacture to achieve optimal strength and durability. This ratio has a direct impact on the quality of the concrete, ensuring that it meets structural requirements and performs well over time, reducing risks associated with excessive water content and maintaining building integrity.

9. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Ensuring worker safety is essential, which necessitates strict standards of PPE such as helmets, boots, and gloves. These important tools protect workers against risks, lowering the chance of injury on construction sites and in industrial environments. Employers who mandate their use exhibit a commitment to occupational safety standards, establishing a safe work environment in which employees can do their jobs confidently and with minimal risk to their health and well-being.

10. Waste Management

Create a comprehensive plan to reduce concrete waste by optimizing batching procedures and maintaining material efficiency. This strategy reduces environmental impact while simultaneously improving project cost-effectiveness and sustainability.

11. Admixtures

Admixtures should be used sparingly, precisely following suggested dosages to meet specific needs such as changing setting times or improving workability. This guarantees that concrete structures perform optimally and last as long as possible, while still keeping construction quality and safety regulations.

12. Compaction

It's crucial to meticulously compact concrete to eliminate any voids and ensure uniform density across the entire structure. This process enhances the concrete's strength, durability, and resistance to cracking over time.

Also Read: 10 Steps to be followed before Constructing a House

Here's a deeper look at some of the exciting trends shaping RCC construction in 2024

Material Advancements:

1. Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC)

This stellar material has excellent flow properties, which eliminates the need for intense vibration during placement. This results in faster construction times, lower labor costs, and a denser final product. In 2024, research will focus on developing SCC mixes with increased workability and performance in hot weather conditions.

2. High-Performance Concrete (HPC)

Pushing the boundaries of traditional concrete, HPC mixes enable the construction of daring architectural feats. These specially formulated blends provide superior strength, low permeability, and high resistance to cracking and seismic activity. In 2024, advancements in self-curing HPC mixes will reduce the need for external water curing, further streamlining construction processes.

3. Sustainable Solutions

With an increased emphasis on environmental responsibility, the use of recycled materials in RCC is gaining traction. Research is currently being conducted to develop efficient methods for incorporating construction and demolition waste (CDW) as partial replacements for virgin aggregates. Furthermore, advances in admixtures are helping to reduce the carbon footprint associated with concrete production.

Digital Revolution:

1. Building Information Modeling (BIM)

BIM is transforming the design and construction of RCC structures. By incorporating detailed reinforcement data into 3D models, BIM enables clash detection during the design phase, reducing the need for costly rework on site. This technology also facilitates better communication and coordination among architects, engineers, and contractors, resulting in a more efficient construction process.

Emerging Technologies:

1. 3D Printing with Concrete:

While still in its early stages, 3D printing with concrete has the potential to completely transform the construction industry. This innovative technology enables the production of complex building components with minimal waste and high precision. In 2024, research will focus on developing faster printing speeds and a broader range of printable concrete mixes, paving the way for broad adoption of this technology.

Conclusion

Like other areas of CONTECH such as concrete research and development (R & D) have been a continuous operation, like mentioned above, different forms of concrete have been produced from time to time to meet the construction industry's needs. Self-healing and smart concrete technologies are still being developed, but are expected to be fully developed soon and will be accessible for use in construction.

Also check out our blog on 3d printing in construction.

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