Fiber: good for the concrete diet?

Article Abstract:

Fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) has many advantages over rebar concrete, such as less weight for equal strength, wider joint spacing, greater ductility and toughness and easier fabrication. Yet, US codes allow only non-structural use of FRC since it needs further performance testing for strength, durability and chemical stability. Its dosage factor also needs closer scrutiny. As it is, FRC strength depends on a higher fiber volume compared to conventional concrete's lower rebar needs. So far, tests show more structural potential for synthetic, specialty synthetic and steel fibers than for glass fibers.

Usage, Cover Story, Glass fibers, Reinforced concrete, Fiber, Fiber reinforced concrete, Synthetic fabrics, Metal fibers

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Concrete colossus

Article Abstract:

Conoco Inc. built the world's largest tension-leg oil offshore platform that weighs 2.9 million kg. and measures 110 m on each side. The design of the platform eliminates the need for a full module support frame while allowing for a flexible topside design. It is the first platform to be made of lightweight aggregate concrete. It is currently being used at Norway's oil and natural gas oil field where it produces oil at a rate that surpassed its design production capacity of 283,000 cubic meters while producing about 5 million cubic meters of natural gas a day.

Petroleum industry, Design and construction, Buildings and facilities, Natural gas exploration, Conoco Inc., Oil and gas exploration, Petroleum exploration, Drilling platforms

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Cellular concrete stops airplanes in their tracks

Article Abstract:

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is installing special concrete blocks at the end of airport runways to bring any aircraft which overshoot to a gradual stop. The aerated concrete in the cellular blocks is only 10% as dense as regular concrete which allows aircraft landing gear to break through it. The authority, which participated in the development of the system, has installed one concrete pad at John F. Kennedy International Airport, and will install a further two at a cost of $9.8 million at LaGuardia Airport.

Safety and security measures, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Airport security

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