This article will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of reinforced concrete. Reinforced concrete is a combination of materials commonly used to build structures around the world.
First, let's discuss the advantages of reinforced concrete.
Advantages of reinforced concrete
- Unlike other materials such as wood, steel, etc., reinforced concrete has greater resistance. The compressive strength is comparatively higher.
- Although concrete does not have as high a tensile strength as other construction materials, its tensile strength is increased by additional reinforcement.
- As reinforced concrete is composed of stone, sand, cement, water, reinforcement, etc., its production is not as difficult as other materials.
- If steel is considered, its production is done in the factory and the available section must be used for construction. When concrete is used as a construction material, the element can be customized according to the customer's needs without much difficulty.
- The biggest advantage of reinforced concrete is the connection between the elements. Unlike other materials, reinforced concrete can be joined together without much difficulty.
- Reinforced concrete is more durable compared to other materials such as steel.
- Reinforced concrete can be used for construction purposes in any harsh environment. However, there are many limitations when using other materials such as steel for construction. They do not last long as they cannot be used in such harsh conditions.
- Less-skilled workers can also carry out construction. However, the steel structure cannot be built without very qualified experts.
- The maintenance effort for reinforced concrete is lower and maintenance costs are very low.
- The service life of reinforced concrete structures is very long. This is one of the biggest advantages of reinforced concrete.
- Reinforced concrete has very high abrasion resistance
- It can withstand the shock loads
- The deflection of the element is comparatively less.
- When properly constructed, it provides adequate warning of collapse.
Disadvantages of reinforced concrete
- One of the biggest disadvantages of reinforced concrete is its lack of tensile strength. Although concrete has high compressive strength, it is very resistant to tension. Therefore, the tensile strength contribution of concrete is generally not taken into account in design except in special cases.
- The construction phase of reinforced concrete elements is very important. Making the concrete, pouring and curing until hardened are some of the most important steps that must be carried out by a qualified person.
- Additionally, lack of attention during construction can lead to durability issues. Care must be taken to Factor that affects the durability of concrete during construction.
- Special attention may be required when pouring thick concrete. Increase in concrete temperature due to heat of hydration beyond a certain limit may lead to delayed ettringite formation. Therefore, it is necessary to perform model testing before construction begins. This creates costs for the project.
- Concrete is not an environmentally friendly material. It is not a green material.
- Reinforced concrete does not gain strength after pouring. We have to wait until it reaches its strength. We normally assume that concrete reaches strength after 28 days. Or, if needed sooner, we add additives and check the strength beforehand.
There are other advantages and disadvantages of reinforced concrete that are not listed above. The most important factors are discussed in this article.
