Understanding the Strength and Weakness of Conventional Concrete

Understanding Conventional Concrete Characteristics

Conventional concrete weight: Conventional concrete is known to have a weight range of 140 to 150 pounds per cubic foot (pcf). This weight is important to consider in construction projects as it contributes to the overall load-bearing capacity of structures.

Strength in compression: One of the key characteristics of conventional concrete is its strength in compression. It can effectively resist pushing or squeezing forces, making it suitable for supporting heavy structures like buildings and bridges.

Weakness in tension and shear: Despite its strength in compression, conventional concrete is weak in tension and shear. When exposed to pulling or shearing forces, concrete may crack or break, leading to structural failures.

To overcome the weakness of conventional concrete in tension and shear, steel reinforcement is commonly used in construction projects. The addition of steel bars or mesh helps enhance the tensile strength of concrete, making it more resistant to cracking and deformations.