Shotcrete has been used extensively in the construction industry for many decades now. Used as a method of applying concrete, shotcrete uses a hose to pneumatically spray concrete at high velocity onto a receiving surface. The properties of spraying concrete at high velocity has numerous advantages over traditional cast-in-place concrete, and contractors can generally perform their jobs faster, more efficiently, and cheaper than the conventional method.
Shotcrete is a sustainable method of applying concrete in regard to both environmental and economic impacts. Less labour is required when using shotcrete, formwork and other materials can be substantially reduced, and the end product is more durable than traditional concrete when applied correctly. Furthermore, construction speeds are significantly increased and shotcrete can be used in difficult to reach areas where traditional concrete presents many challenges (such as overhead and underground construction).
As a result, many industries can benefit from the use of shotcrete, and today we’ll exploring some of these applications to give you a greater understanding of why shotcrete has become the number one choice for the application of concrete.
Slope stabilisation
One of the biggest challenges for civil engineers in the construction industry is slope stabilisation, particularly when constructing dams, railroads, and highways. There are many factors which must be considered, such as the terrain characteristics, composition, soil grade, and climate, and each of these factors need to be considered in unison. Given that shotcrete has increased versatility, durability, and capacity to adhere to substract, when sprayed at high velocity onto a receiving surface, any cracks and fissures can be substantially reduced along with preventing loose materials from falling.
Tunnel construction
Shotcrete has revolutionised the construction of tunnels through the ease at which it can stabilise host rock and provide a durable final lining to the tunnel itself. The construction speed and complexity of tunnels have been dramatically enhanced through the use of shotcrete, as it can be densely compacted and create a thick and durable wall that is stronger, less permeable, and has a higher resistance to weathering and chemicals. Using traditional concrete to construct tunnels nowadays simply wouldn’t be feasible.
Swimming pools
Almost all concrete swimming pools in modern times are constructed using shotcrete (using both the wet-mix and dry-mix methods). Considering that shotcrete has lower permeability and lower absorption than traditional concrete, swimming pools constructed using shotcrete have a longer life expectancy as they experience less cracking and other waterproofing issues. With most pools being constructed in custom shapes, the versatility of shotcrete along with the need for less formwork allows contractors to complete these projects much faster and at a lower cost.
Retaining walls
The versatility, durability, and adaptability of shotcrete makes it incredibly beneficial when constructing retaining walls. Spraying concrete at high velocity allows these structures to be built more efficiently and without the need for formwork which saves additional costs. The various types of shotcrete finishes available also allows retaining walls to have an architectural or artistic finish applied to them, enhancing their aesthetic appeal.
Repair and restoration
One of the biggest applications of shotcrete is within the repair and restoration industry. Since these types of projects don’t require formwork, contactors can repair and restore a range of structures quickly and efficiently. There are a wide variety of structures which can benefit from shotcrete repairs, such as tunnel linings, highway bridges, canal linings and walls, dam faces, and of course to strengthen and thicken existing concrete structures.
These are just some industries which have benefited from the use of shotcrete over the years, and there are plenty of other engineering applications such as water tanks, drainage, rail cuttings, basement walls, and even skate parks and custom rock formations which also use shotcrete to their economic and environmental advantage. The benefits gained from the unique method of mixing, transporting, and applying concrete at high velocity result in increased productivity, decreased costs, and a superior final product.
If you have an upcoming project which can benefit from the use of shotcrete, get in touch with the shotcreting professionals at Evolution Shotcrete by phoning 07 5561 8885.