Research Progress on Shotcrete for Construction Applications: A Scientometric Review

Abstract

Considerable research has been carried out on shotcrete for rock supports in tunneling and mining. This study used a novel approach based on scientometric analysis of shotcrete’s bibliographic data to determine its essential components. Knowledge mapping, co-occurrence, and citation analysis are the most difficult parts of current research. The information needed to complete the study was retrieved from the Scopus search engine. There were 1267 articles considered, and the VOSviewer program was used to analyze. Important publishing sources, keyword analysis, writers that have the most contribution in terms of citations and publications, the most-cited articles, and the regions most actively engaged in shotcrete research were identified throughout the data review process. Also, shotcrete’s current applications and main limitations were explored. In addition to its applications in tunneling and mining, shotcrete can also be used for refractory linings, soil stabilization, structural restorations, and the construction of river barriers, swimming pools, shell structures, domes, and even buildings. However, the durability performance of shotcrete is poorer compared to conventional concrete. In this regard, additional in-depth research is needed to strengthen the durability features of shotcrete. The graphical description and quantitative contribution of scholars and countries in this study might help academics build collaborative projects and disseminate new ideas and methods.