Thin Underwater Concrete Structures

Abstract

During the past half century more reinforced concrete wharves and piers of the slender-pillar type have been constructed in Norwegian harbors than all of the other types of wharves put together. It is the method of pouring the slender, reinforced concrete pillars under water which has made this type of wharf construction so economically favorable. A comprehensive field inspection of 219 older structures of this type has recently been carried out. The overall good condition observed proves that concrete can be successfully placed under water, even for reinforced concrete members with relatively narrow cross sections. The findings emphasize, however, that a proper casting technique is essential, and that sulphate resisting cements are generally preferable in this type of underwater construction, even in cold climates.