156. SCC in South Africa - The challenge to introduce a new technology to the construction industry

Title: 156. SCC in South Africa - The challenge to introduce a new technology to the construction industry
Author(s): A. Geel, H. Beushausen, M.G. Alexander
Paper category : conference
Book title: 5th International RILEM Symposium on Self-Compacting Concrete
Editor(s): G. De Schutter and V. Boel
Print-ISBN: 978-2-35158-047-9
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-088-2
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2007
Pages: 1035 - 1040
Total Pages: 6
Nb references: 2
Language: English

Abstract: Self compacting concrete is a widely accepted technology in Europe, East Asia, and North America. In South Africa, on the other hand, SCC has only been used for a relatively small number of individual applications. Technical advantages of self-compacting concrete are generally understood, yet acceptance of the new technology by the local industry is at this time very limited. The reluctance to accept the new technology is partly related to the limitations that presently surround the use of self-compacting concrete, and partly due to large players in the cement and concrete industry in South Africa. The limitations include sparce knowledge and experience of specifying and working with SCC using South African materials, in addition to an absence of South African standards or guidelines that can be used to facilitate the design, manufacture and application of self-compacting concrete.
An investigation into the South African cement and concrete industry has been performed, in addition to a market review to gain insight into the extent of use of SCC in South Africa presently. The paper discusses the South African experience in introducing SCC to the construction industry and highlights the specific problems faced by an industry that largely relies on a comparatively inexpensive and often unskilled labour force.

Online publication: 2009-06-16
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros): 0.00