Sustainability calls for structures which satisfy the current needs without causing harm to the needs of future generations. Other materials may have to modify their structure or features to be applicable to sustainable structures, whereas precast concrete’s characteristics make it a natural choice for achieving sustainability. Owing to justified increase of concern over the environmental laws, the construction industry is in need of adaptation of Prestressed Precast which contributes to the sustainability concept of “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”
Precast model of construction is a effective way in conserving our environment. It is recognized and recommended by several international environmental agencies as well as the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, GoI which calls for compliance with ECBC which are readily provide by precast elements. PRECAst Structures gains 23 Potential points of Green Building LEED Certification under the categories of
We have answered a few questions which show why Precast elements are effective in developing green structures.
Is precast concrete a green building material?Precast concrete contributes to green building practices in significant ways. The low water-cement ratios possible with precast concrete-0.36 to 0.38- mean it can be extremely durable. Because it is factory-made, there is little waste created in the plant and it reduces construction waste and debris on site, reducing construction IAQ concerns.
What makes precast concrete so durable?Unlike other construction materials that can rust, rot, or otherwise degrade when in the presence of moisture, concrete can actually get stronger if there are un-hydrated cement particles available to react with the water.
Is precast concrete different
from other types of concrete? It is different because it is made in a factory by highly experienced personnel who apply stringent quality-control measures. In the factory environment, precasters are able to achieve consistency in temperature and moisture and low water to cement ratios that are not possible in field-fabricated concrete.
Is precast concrete energy-efficient?The thermal mass of precast concrete absorbs and releases heat slowly, shifting air conditioning and heating loads to allow smaller, more efficient heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. The resulting savings are significant up to 25% on heating and cooling costs
Does precast concrete contain recycled materials?Precast concretes fresh and in-place performance can improve when several common industrial byproducts are added. Fly ash, slag, and silica fume, which would otherwise go to landfills, can be incorporated into concrete as supplementary materials. These by-products can also reduce the amount of cement that is used in concrete. Reinforcement is typically made from recycled steel.
Can precast concrete members be reused?Precast concrete members are unique in that they are individually engineered products that can be disassembled. Designers can easily plan future additions to buildings, because the precast concrete components can be rearranged. Once removed, precast concrete members may be reused in other applications. Precast concrete is also friendly to down cycling, in which building materials are broken down, because it comes apart with a minimum amount of energy and retains its original qualities.
