Advantages of Concrete

Concrete possesses a high compressive strength and is not subjected to corrosive and weathering effects. Concrete can be easily handled and moulded into any shape. Concrete can even be sprayed in and filled into fine cracks for repairs by Gunting process. In reinforced cement concrete (R.C.C), concrete and steel form a very good combination because the co-efficients of expansion of concrete and steel are nearly equal.

Construction of all types of structures is possible by reinforcing the concrete with steel. Even earthquake-resistant structures can be constructed. Cinder concrete can be used as a sound proofing material. Where strength is not a main requirement, but fire-resistance, insulation and light weight are major considerations, light weight concrete is advantageous. The concrete can be pumped and hence it can be laid in difficult positions also. Form work can be used a number of times for similar jobs which results in economy. Concrete is economical in the long run as compared to other engineering materials. Frequent repairs are not needed for concrete structures and the concrete gains strength with age.

Disadvantages of Concrete
Beside being an ideal construction material, it does have following disadvantages.

Concrete has low tensile strength and hence cracks easily. Therefore, concrete is to be reinforced with mild steel bars, high tensile steel bars or mesh. Concrete expands and contracts with the changes in temperature. Hence expansion joints are to be provided to avoid the formation of cracks due to thermal movements. Fresh concrete shrinks on drying. It also expands and contracts with wetting and drying. Provision of contraction joints is to be made to avoid the formation of cracks due to drying shrinkage and moisture movements.

Concrete is not entirely impervious to moisture and contains and contains soluble salts which may cause efflorescence. This requires special care at the joints. Concrete prepared by using ordinary Portland cement disintegrates by the action of Alkalies, Sulphates, etc. Special type of cements are to be used under such circumstances.

Concrete is heavy in weight and requires large quantity of steel in the construction as the self load is greater. Creep develops in concrete under sustained loads and this factor is to taken care of while designing dams and pre-stressed concrete structures.