Suitability of Nylon reinforced cement sheet over conventional cement sheet

Abstract

Asbestos cement sheets and galvanized iron sheets in corrugated forms are extensively used for roofing in housing, industrial sheds, godowns and other structures. Asbestos cement sheets fail under impact load. The material “asbestos” used for the manufacturing of sheets is hazardous to human health. It causes diseases like asbestosis and lung cancer to the people working for the manufacturing of the sheets. Due to this reason, it has been banned in many countries such as USA, Russia, France, Canada, etc. In India, due to its minimum costs most of the citizens take health risks. Thus, it is a sincere effort to give the people a better alternative within their limits. Galvanized iron sheets are costly and require continuous maintenance. The main problem of G.I sheets is the corrosion. During summer seasons, area under these roofs becomes very hot and unbearable. Repairing of these sheets is also very difficult as it has a tendency to break easily. The Asbestos material required for the manufacturing of A.C. sheets are to be imported making it economically unviable. The community as a whole is indirectly affected as the same water may be used for drinking purpose which falls on the asbestos sheets. Looking at the above disadvantages of the galvanized and asbestos sheets and reviewing the present scenario, it is necessary to develop a better alternative. Nylon reinforced cement corrugated sheet made from nylon nets and cement mortar may emerge as a replacement for AC roofing and GI roofing.