Title: Ferrocement in Structural Upgrading and Rehabilitation—An Overview

Author(s): P. Paramasivam, C. T. E. Lim, and K. C. G. Ong

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 193

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 353-369

Keywords: beam; cementitious; ferrocement; reinforced concrete; repair; slab; strength

DOI: 10.14359/5832

Date: 8/1/2000

Abstract:
Ferrocement, a thin structural composite material, exhibits better crack resistance, higher tensile strength-to-weight ratio, ductility and impact resistance than conventional reinforced concrete. These properties have been exploited through the use of ferrocement for structural upgrading and the rehabilitation of concrete structures. This paper highlights over 20 years of research and innovative applications of ferrocement by a team of researchers at the Centre of Construction Materials and Technology at the National University of Singapore. A number of successful commercial precast applications of ferrocement for use in the upgrading of building fixtures and services have resulted from the research carried out. Salient features of the design, construction and performance of ferrocement structural elements used in upgrading and rehabilitation are discussed briefly in this paper. Experimental studies into the durability, strength and impact properties are also discussed. Once viewed as a labour intensive construction material, the production of ferrocement precast elements through mechanization have rendered the material competitive and economically viable for use in construction, upgrading and structural rehabilitation in land scarce Singapore with its high labour cost.