This week, you focused on the use of concrete in building construction. In your readings, you explored the versatility of concrete and the unlimited architectural potential that can be realized through mix design and reinforcement combinations with other materials. For this week’s Application Assignment, you will explain the versatility of concrete construction elements and analyze the fundamentals of concrete proportions, mix design, and reinforcing practices.
Begin by making a comparative analysis of the crucial design and construction considerations when choosing between cast-in-place and pre-cast concrete design elements. In your analysis, consider vertical elements such as walls and columns, and horizontal elements such as grade slabs and elevated slabs. In addition, factor cost, schedule, safety, aesthetics, and sustainability in your response.
Create an analysis, discuss the changes required to a normal concrete mix design to allow concrete to be used in tall buildings.
Your response should be between 300 and 500 words in length.
Be sure to support your work with specific citations from this week’s Learning Resources and additional scholarly sources as appropriate. Refer to the Harvard System of Referencing guide to ensure your in-text citations and reference list are correct.
Recommended sources from textbook:
Course Text: Building Construction
Chapter 21, “Lime, Portland Cement, and Concrete”
This chapter begins with a discussion of lime, which preceded Portland cement, a basic ingredient in concrete. The chapter further discusses the types of Portland cement as well as the components and properties of concrete. Finally, the chapter describes the types of steel reinforcements that are typically used in conjunction with concrete.
Chapter 22, “Concrete Construction–I (Formwork, Reinforcement, and Slabs-on-Ground)”
This chapter examines the two ways in which steel is used to reinforce concrete and describes the types of formwork used to reinforce floors, columns, and walls. Additionally, this chapter discusses the reinforcement techniques for concrete slabs.
Chapter 23, “Concrete Construction–II (Site-Cast and Precast Concrete Framing Systems)”
Chapter 23 provides an overview of elevated site-cast concrete slabs and discusses the types of beam-supported and beamless concrete floors. The chapter further discusses precast concrete construction.
