Concrete is all around us. Beneath us, above us, off where we can’t see and still influencing how we live.
This doesn’t mean we can take advantage of it. Concrete, just like any material, needs to have its limits respected if it’s to work to the fullest of its ability. This means replacing concrete when it becomes far too cracked or looking into earth retention resources when you need extra power. Anchored wall systems are used to line canals and support dams, among other things, and can’t have their benefits overstated.. Are you looking for civil construction tools?
Read on and learn more about how you can do better controlling water flow or start preventing erosion from water runoff.
Concrete Is One Of Today’s Most Commonly Used Resources
It’s easy to take for granted that which we see every day. Concrete is right up there with wood, brick, and paper in commonly used resources. It’s thought concrete is used more than any other human made material on the planet, in fact, and this likely won’t change due to its easy installation and ability to be recycled. Concrete cement is divided into several subcategories to cover all areas of society. You have anchored wall systems for dams, outfall protection, repair, maintenance, and much more.
Concrete Cement Is Usually Composed Of A Few Materials
Part of what concrete so useful is not just its durability, but simple mixture. Concrete, by volume, is a mixture of 60% to 75% aggregate (gravel and sand). It’s also 15% to 20% water, 10% to 15% cement, and 5% to 10% air. Getting these percentages right is essential to creating a thick and smooth finish that will stand the test of time. Concrete is impressive in just how strong it is, with strengths up to 20,000 psi more than possible. Strengths between 3,000 and 7,000 are more commonly used, however.
Civil Engineering Is Getting More Expensive
It’s easy to see why civil engineering is seeing a spike in projects. Countless American roads are starting to fail and many Americans are growing frustrated with the quality of their cities. Over six billion cubic meters of concrete are made each year as we know it. Earth retaining methods are thought to help alleviate the $750 million spent every year to repair landslides. It can also help prevent more subtle issues, such as runoff pollution in major urbanized areas.
Run Off Pollution Is A Major Health Problem
Cities seem to straddle the line between seeming clean and incredibly dirty. Thanks to street sweepers and maintenance workers are we able to enjoy walking on smooth sidewalks and avoid potholes. Concrete structures, however, have another disadvantage that needs to be watched carefully. Runoff pollution is a term referring to contaminants, such as oil and pesticides, washing off smooth surfaces and dripping into the environment. Concrete projects often have to take this into account during the building phase.
There Are Several Types Of Lining To Choose From
Concrete may be sturdy, but it’s also quite flexible, metaphorically speaking. There are several types of canal lining and anchored wall systems to choose from. You have what’s known as ‘earthen type lining’, which further splits into ‘compacted earth lining’ and the ‘soil cement lining’. You can also go a step further and incorporate brick or plastic into your lining. Sometimes this is done for aesthetic purpose. It’s best to look into a professional when picking, as this is a structure you’ll want to last a good, long while.
Choose the best concrete for the job. Reach out to a civil construction company.
