CHAPTER 5

ADVANTAGES AND LIMITATIONS

Translucent concrete has proven itself as a emerging constructions material which green,
efficient but along with its numerous advantages, it also shows some limitations of using
transparent blocks in construction.

Translucent concrete is a great insulating material that protects against outdoor extreme
temperatures while also letting in daylight. This makes it an excellent compromise for
buildings in harsh climates, where it can shut out heat or cold without shutting the
building off from daylight. It can be used to illuminate underground buildings and
structures, such as subway stations & arranging of translucent concrete in zero energy
buildings.

5.1 Advantages
 The main advantage of these products is that Energy saving can be done by
utilization of transparent concrete in building.
 Totally environment friendly because of its light transmitting characteristics, so
energy consumption can be reduced.
 On large scale objects the texture is still visible -while the texture of finer
translucent concrete becomes indistinct at distance.
 Optical fiber work as heat insulator so the translucent concrete is suitable in cold
countries.

 As the initial cost is high routine maintenance is not required, So Advantageous in

lengthy run

 It has high-quality architectural properties for giving the good aesthetical view to
building.

5.2 Limitations:
 The translucent concrete is costly as compare to conventional concrete due to
optical fibers.

14
  For casting translucent concrete skilled workmen’s are required.

5.3 Applications of Translucent Concrete:

In current stages the translucent concrete is not widely produced .They can only produced
as precast blocks and wall panels. It cannot be poured on site like the conventional
concrete. Generally the translucent concrete is used for decorative purpose.
 Translucent concrete blocks can be used as building material for external and
internal wall.
 For increasing visibility in dark subway stations.
 Light transmitting concrete able to use in architectural construction sector for
road.
 This concrete can be used for ceilings of large administrative center building
which reduce the lighting costs during daylight hours.
 Sidewalks with translucent concrete could be illuminate which affect the safety
and encourage foot travel which is
avoided at night.

15