Title: Ferrocement: Applications for Urban Environment

Author(s): P. Paramasivam

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 159

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 95-104

Keywords: cracking (fracturing); durability; galvanized materials; mortars (materials); precast concrete; General

DOI: 10.14359/1595

Date: 2/1/1996

Abstract:
Ferrocement is a type of thin-wall reinforced concrete with high performance characteristics such as high tensile strength to weight ratio, ductility, and impact resistance. Basic considerations of the materials used, fine galvanized wire mesh and a cement mortar coupled with its good crack controlling characteristics, indicated that ferrocement will provide better durability, ease of maintenance, and lower life cycle cost. It can be cost competitive through mechanized production and proper choice of reinforcement. The National University of Singapore has since the early 1970's made considerable efforts in popularizing ferrocement through research and development. Several studies have been conducted on the application and performance of prototype ferrocement structural elements. Some of the applications such as sunscreens, secondary roofing slabs, and water tanks for high-rise buildings are presented in this paper.