Post-tensioned concrete is an advanced method of reinforcing concrete elements like slabs, beams, and walls. It involves tensioning high-strength steel strands inside plastic ducts cast into the concrete during construction. Using hydraulic jacks, technicians stretch the steel cables to over 70% of their tensile capacity after the surrounding concrete has cured. This puts the concrete…
As infrastructure and buildings age, concrete demolition becomes necessary before new construction can begin. Specialized tools and controlled techniques allow concrete to be broken up and hauled away while managing environmental impacts, costs, and safety concerns. Concrete demolition companies utilize jackhammers, diamond saws, hydraulic breakers, and other methods to fracture reinforced concrete. Projects must balance…
Fresh concrete contains a lot of air bubbles that get trapped during the mixing process. This entrapped air can reduce the strength of concrete by up to 30% if it is not properly removed. The process of removing the excess air bubbles from concrete is called concrete consolidation. Concrete consolidation is critical for ensuring the…
Honeycombing in concrete represents one of the most detrimental defects in concrete construction, significantly compromising integrity. This phenomenon occurs when gaps and cavities resembling a honeycomb pattern are left behind in cured concrete. Instead of a continuous matrix, concrete contains weaknesses in the form of hollow pores and channels that permeate within. Honeycombing stems largely…
Precast concrete construction refers to the fabrication of concrete structural elements at an offsite controlled facility, which are then transported and assembled into a building or structure at the project site. Precast concrete has been embraced by the construction industry due to the many benefits it offers over traditional cast-in-place concrete. The main purpose of…
Cellular lightweight concretes represent innovative cement-based materials containing dispersions of micro-scale air voids to minimize density. Enhancing specific desirable properties. Modern foam or aerated concrete production along with advanced admixtures now facilitate wide-ranging lightweight concrete applications unmatched by traditional options. Autoclaved Aerated Concrete Blocks Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) stands as one of the most well-known…