Brief
Discover how an ASU Civil engineering professor is transforming the construction sector with a pioneering alternative to traditional concrete. This groundbreaking technique not only reduces time and cost but also promises durability.
Insight
Construction delays due to prolonged processes might soon become history, thanks to innovative research from an Arizona State University professor, Barzin Mobasher. Mobasher is spearheading an initiative to alter the traditional concrete mixing method which has been used for over a century.
Traditionally, concrete is reinforced with steel rebars, requiring many to be fitted into frames. However, Mobasher’s technique proposes a paradigm shift, suggesting the use of steel fibres instead. This seemingly small change can produce concrete with comparable strength to its rebar counterpart.
ASU’s concrete lab, under Mobasher’s guidance, conducts rigorous tests on this new mixture. The lab is equipped to simulate various stressors, including vehicular movement and seismic activities. This new mixture has already been successfully utilised.
One notable application was in the construction of an ASU science and technology building. This methodology promises significant savings in both time and money, primarily by eliminating the need for steel rebar frameworks. Consequently, long-term traffic disruptions and other inconveniences associated with extensive construction periods are considerably reduced.
In a striking demonstration of its efficacy, the new concrete mix was used in the Valley Metro Light Rail project. Remarkably, what was estimated to take over 33 weeks for a span of 1.5 miles was completed in half that time. Moreover, the projected budget was slashed from $17 million to just above $5 million.
At present, Mobasher and his team are collaborating with Maricopa County, exploring the potential of this concrete in bridge repairs or replacements. Preliminary estimations suggest that bridges can be replaced in approximately a week, a stark contrast to the conventional 2-3 month timeframe.
From September 18 to 20, ASU plans to organise a workshop, welcoming global researchers to further discuss this concrete innovation’s benefits. Those interested in delving deeper can find more information about this event online.With these advancements, the future of construction seems more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable.
Highlight
- his methodology promises significant savings in both time and money, primarily by eliminating the need for steel rebar frameworks.
- Remarkably, what was estimated to take over 33 weeks for a span of 1.5 miles was completed in half that time.
- Moreover, the projected budget was slashed from $17 million to just above $5 million.
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Related Questions:
- Can you use fiber instead of rebar in concrete?
- Can you use fiber mesh instead of rebar?
- Can steel fiber replace rebar?
- Can fiber reinforced concrete replace reinforced cement concrete?
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