Ready-mixed Concrete Research Articles

Investigating the factors affecting sustainability of ready mix concrete plants: case study of Pune region

Construction industry plays a significant role in the economic development of the nation. Due to site and other constraints, concreting is preferred by ready mix concrete (RMC) plants. It is very well-known fact that the construction industry immensely contributed for CO2 emission mainly from cement-based materials. One of the way to achieve smart city objective to effectively manage ready mix concrete plants. While opting for RMC over site mixing offers various advantages. In this study, key factors governing the sustainability and energy consumption of RMC plants are identified. This study investigates the efficiency and sustainability of RMC production in Maharashtra, suggesting that its efficiency hinges on various factors. Through a constructivist perspective, the research examines twelve RMC plants in Pune mainly and other parts of Maharashtra, finding that power supply, plant output, and capacity require sustainability. While raw material supply is deemed sustainable, management methods and product control were found lacking. The study identifies challenges affecting demand, such as regulatory issues, management issues and technological limitations. The conclusion emphasizes the need for alternative and sustainable power sources, skilled labor, and improved business processes to enhance RMC production efficiency in Maharashtra, recommending measures like waste reuse and innovative advancements. This study will help the stakeholders in prioritizing the resources and process towards more sustainable way.

Innovative and environmentally friendly MICP surface curing: Enhancing mechanical and durability properties of concrete

Concrete curing is a critical factor influencing its mechanical properties and durability. Traditional curing methods, such as water curing and plastic film curing, have significant limitations, including high water consumption and environmental pollution. This study introduces Microbial Induced Carbonate Precipitation (MICP) as an innovative, environmentally friendly curing method for ready-mixed concrete, addressing the urgent need for sustainable construction practices. The feasibility of MICP surface curing is investigated through comprehensive mechanical and durability tests, coupled with microscopic analyses to understand the underlying mechanisms. The results demonstrate that MICP curing substantially enhances concrete performance. Compared to traditional water curing, the samples cured using MICP have increased compressive strength and splitting tensile strength by up to 31.69% and 24.66%, respectively. Additionally, MICP surface curing significantly reduced capillary water absorption, electric flux, and chloride ion migration coefficient by 12.83%, 15.50%, and 17.36%, respectively. It is found that the optimal concentration of Ca2+ in the MICP solution initially improves concrete performance, which then diminishes at higher concentrations due to bacterial activity inhibition. Spraying the MICP solution at appropriate intervals and increasing the number of treatments further improved concrete properties by ensuring a more extensive and dense deposition of CaCO3. Microscopic analyses, including XRD, TG, and SEM-EDS, revealed that MICP surface curing leads to the formation of vaterite and calcite, which densely cover and fill microscopic cracks and pores, ensuring adequate hydration and simultaneously enhancing the concrete's mechanical and durability properties. This study concludes that MICP surface curing provides superior performance than traditional methods and offers a more sustainable and environmentally friendly curing method.

Metode Pelaksanaan Pekerjaan Struktur Balok dan Pelat Lantai 2 Pembangunan Gelanggang Generasi Muda Majalengka

Beams and Floor Plates are a very important construction structure in a building. In carrying out work on floor slabs and beams, a method is needed to complete the work in the field. Especially when facing obstacles caused by field conditions that do not match previous expectations. For this reason, applying construction implementation methods that are appropriate to field conditions will be very helpful in the process of completing construction projects. Research on the construction method for the beam and floor slab construction was carried out at the Majalengka Young Generation Center construction. The casting method for the beams and floor slabs is conventional using ready mix concrete with a slump test value of 12 ± 2. From the results of the research on the construction implementation method for the Majalengka Young Generation Arena, it was found that: beam and floor plate work includes, preparatory work includes measuring work, scaffolding installation and formwork installation, then there is reinforcement/reinforcing work, namely steel fabrication in the project area, then there is work Casting the beams and floor plates using a tower crane. Next, maintenance work is carried out on the concrete mixture during the drying process, namely by watering according to regulations.

Calcined Clays as Concrete Additive in Structural Concrete: Workability, Mechanical Properties, Durability, and Sustainability Performance.

Calcined clays (CCs) as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) can be a promising option to reduce clinker content and CO2 emissions in eco-friendly concretes. Although CCs as components of composite cements in combination with Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and limestone powder (LSP) have attracted industry interest, their use as concrete additives is limited. This study investigates the effects of the addition of CCs on the fresh and hardened properties of industry-standard ready-mixed concretes. Four concrete mix designs, each with three superplasticizer dosages, were tested, resulting in 12 variations. The CCs used, which are typical of 2:1 bentonite clays with low metakaolin content, reflect the clays available in Germany. The results showed that CCs significantly influenced the workability, which could be controlled with a high superplasticizer dosage. Increased CC contents reduced bleeding tendencies, which was beneficial for certain structural applications. Early age strength decreased with CCs, but the 28-day strength exceeded that of pure OPC concretes up to 30 wt% CCs. Resistance to CO2-induced carbonation decreased with higher levels of CCs but was comparable up to 15 wt%. Freeze-thaw damage decreased, and chloride migration resistance improved due to a denser microstructure. The global warming potential (GWP) of the concretes tested is in line with that reported in the literature for concretes made from highly blended cements, suggesting that CCs can improve the sustainability of concrete production.

Aspekti prikladnosti trostupanjskog miješanja gotove betonske smjese

Several studies have indicated that three-stage mixing (TM) methods improve the mechanical strength and slump of concrete compared to those of normal mixing methods, particularly when a recycled concrete aggregate is used. However, most studies did not address the technological aspects of ready-mixed concrete, including continuous mixing during site delivery. In this study, the properties of concrete (slump and compressive strength) based on the time lapse after mixing via the TM method (i.e. immediately, 45 min, and 90 min after mixing) were investigated, and the samples were tested after three years of curing. The results indicate some positive effects of TM on ready-mixed concrete and its characteristics on a delivery to the construction site, particularly a less severe loss of consistency compared to that of conventional mixing, as well as a positive effect on the compressive strength when fly ash is used as an aggregate coating additive in the first stage of concrete mixing.

A Study on the Environmental Impact Assessment According to the Material Change of the Debris Barrier using Life Cycle Analysis: Focusing on the Case of Yanggu-gun, Gangwon-do

Objectives : The purpose of this study is to evaluate and analyze the environmental performance of an debris barrier installed in Yanggu-gun, Gangwon-do through life cycle analysis. Throughout the entire process of the debris barrier, the six major environmental categories, including greenhouse gas emissions, will be quantitatively evaluated and based on the derived alternatives, it is intended to help improve environmentality to the extent applicable to future plans for the installation of the debris barrier.Methods : In this study, the major environmental categories (Resource Footprint, Carbon Footprint, Ozone Depletion, Acidification, Eutrophication and Photochemical Smog) for each scenario were calculated and evaluated for changes to major materials of debris barrier according to the methodology of the Environmental Product Declaration Preparation Guidelines. Considering the characteristics of debris barrier, the life cycle evaluation stage considered raw material collection and production stages, and exclude the use stage and disposal stage.Results and Discussion : As a result of analyzing environmental feasibility after setting scenarios for each major material (ready-mixed concrete, natural stone) derived through life cycle evaluation for the debris barrier that is the subject of this study, the maximum difference was resource footprint 4.45E+02 kg Sb-eq., carbon footprint 1.46E+05 kg CO2–eq., ozone Depletion 6.97E-03 kg CFC-11-eq., acidification 2.16E+02 kg SO2–eq., eutrophication 3.94E+01 kg PO43-–eq., photochemical smog was evaluated as 5.28E-01 kg C2H4–eq.Conclusion : It was found that it was possible to reduce the environmental category by up to 64.54% or more when changing construction materials during the construction of an debris barrier. Among these, the carbon footprint was the highest at over 70%, which confirmed that the environmental impact of the ready-mix concrete production process was significant. Based on the results of this study, it is believed that in order to improve the environment when planning the installation of an debris barrier, it is necessary to minimize the use of ready-mixed concrete, introduce eco-friendly materials such as natural stone, and improve eco-friendly technology and construction methods.

Quality Management In Ready-Mix Concrete Production In Zambia

The construction industry, a significant contributor to global economies, is projected to yield substantial economic output by 2030 of around $135 trillion. Central to construction is concrete, a widely used material. Ready-mix concrete (RMC), a specialised form of concrete, is gaining prominence due to its rapid setting and superior quality. In Zambia, the increasing demand for RMC highlights the need for stringent quality management to hedge potential structural risks. This study aimed to determine the quality management in ready-mix concrete production in Zambia. Employing a parallel convergent mixed-methods research design to achieve the objectives, qualitative data was collected through semi-structured interviews and desk study and quantitative data was gathered through a structured questionnaire and an observation checklist. The findings of the study reveal that while guidelines exist, adherence varies. Regulatory bodies for standards, engineering and construction play pivotal roles in overseeing RMC quality. However, their execution faces inconsistencies and challenges due to limited resources and a lack of sense of responsibility. Quality control practices were investigated unveiling variations in forward, immediate, and retrospective control phases. Notable trends in proper storage and equipment calibration showed a commitment to precision. Immediate control practices, encompassing sampling and non-compliance management, demonstrated both positive aspects and areas for improvement. Retrospective control showed commitment to comprehensive strength testing and minimal towards split cylinder testing and on-site slump evaluation. In the realm of quality assurance (QA), RMC facilities show substantial adherence to documented QA standard operating procedures and thorough raw material inspections. However, deficiencies in batching and mixing practices and limited adoption of modern weighing systems require improvement. The study recommends creating an industry association for collaboration, enhancing standardised practices, introducing third-party quality audits, and proposing compulsory RMC standards to boost progress in the Zambian RMC industry. Key Words: Quality Management, Ready Mix Concrete, Observation, Desk Study, Zambia.

Quality Control Analysis in Construction Works of 80/100 U-Ditch Channel with 15 Ton Axle Cover (Jl. Manyar Indah)

This research records experiences and findings during the Work Practice Internship (MPK) on the 80/100 U-Ditch channel construction project with 15 Ton Axle Cover on JL. Manyar Indah, Surabaya. This MPK is part of the Bachelor of Building Engineering Education curriculum at Surabaya State University and aims to provide students with insight and practical experience that cannot be obtained in the classroom. This project, which will run from April to June 2024, provides an opportunity for students to understand the difference between academic theory and practice in the field, as well as getting to know construction implementation methods directly. The main focus of this project is quality control in construction, especially in the use of precast methods for drainage channels. Effective quality control is essential to ensure that construction meets established standards, prevent wasted costs, and guarantee the quality of the final result. In this project, quality control is carried out through several methods, including Quality Control (QC) for wiremesh, Fc'30 Ready Mix concrete, and core concrete compressive strength tests (core drill test). Each stage of quality control aims to ensure that materials and construction implementation comply with established specifications. The quality of the wire mesh used is checked through measurements and structural verification to ensure durability and sturdiness. Fc'30 Ready Mix concrete is tested through a slump test and laboratory compression test to ensure its strength. Core drill testing was carried out on the completed U-Ditch structure to evaluate the strength of the installed concrete. The findings from MPK show that strict quality control and the application of precast technology can improve construction efficiency and quality. The practical experience students gain in the field not only enriches their knowledge but also strengthens the technical and professional skills required in the construction industry. In addition, this MPK helps students build relationships with professionals in the industry, expand their network, and prepare them for careers in the building engineering field. It is hoped that this experience can improve students' competence as prospective professionals in the field of building engineering. This research also highlights the importance of collaboration between universities and industry. This collaboration not only provides benefits for students in the form of practical experience but also provides opportunities for universities to strengthen relationships with industry and expand partnership networks. Thus, this MPK not only contributes to improving the quality of building engineering education but also to the development of better construction industry practices. It is hoped that this research can make a positive contribution to the development of the building engineering education curriculum and encourage increased collaboration between universities and the construction industry. Through effective quality control and the use of precast methods, this project can be used as an example in creating efficient and high-quality construction, in line with the needs and expectations of stakeholders.

Analisis Faktor yang Mempengaruhi Keberhasilan Kerjasama Kontraktor dengan Pemasok Ready Mix Pembangunan PSU Jalan Penghubung pada Perumahan Skala Besar Kota Jambi

Limited resources require contractors to cooperate or collaborate to be able to participate in the connecting road construction project in large-scale housing in Jambi City, the quality requirements of the concrete used require contractors to use ready mix concrete. Ideally, cooperation is the most innovative way to anticipate limited resources and reduce disputes. However, obstacles such as weak cooperation, lack of trust, and ineffective communication are caused by different backgrounds and it is not easy to unite in a team. Therefore, knowledge of the factors leading to the success of cooperative relations is required. Based on this. The purpose of this study is to identify the dominant factors and factors that influence the success of contractor cooperation with ready mix suppliers for the construction of connecting road PSUs in large-scale housing in Jambi City, as well as determining efforts to improve the success of cooperation between contractors and ready mix suppliers for the construction of connecting road PSUs in large-scale housing in Jambi City. The analysis method is carried out with the application of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). This study used quantitative methods by distributing questionnaires to respondents. The results of the research conducted there are 7 factors that influence the success of contractor cooperation with ready mix suppliers for the construction of PSU connecting roads in large-scale housing in Jambi City, namely communication factors, trust factors, commitment factors, role and responsibility factors, management support factors, information and resource factors, and common goal factors.

Calculation of Productivity Loss at Batching Plant Due to Production Decline

The Batching Plant owned by PT Semen Indogreen Sentosa was established in the Binjai-Langsa Section on the Trans Sumatera Toll Road Project specifically to handle the demand for ready-mix concrete in the project. However, several obstacles in the project have caused a decrease in production from the batching plant, necessitating an evaluation of productivity loss due to these issues. The productivity loss calculation was conducted by sampling one of the batching plants over a 1-month working period using three approaches/methods: Zink’s Method, Thomas Baseline Technique, and Ibbs Statistical Approach. The calculation results from these three approaches provided a range of minimum daily productivity values, which should be 4.40 w-h/m3 - 2.48 w-h/m3, which can then be used as a reference for evaluation purposes, claims, etc.

Efficient machine learning for strength prediction of ready-mix concrete production (prolonged mixing)

Purpose This paper aims to clarify the efficient process of the machine learning algorithms implemented in the ready-mix concrete (RMC) onsite. It proposes innovative machine learning algorithms in terms of preciseness and computation time for the RMC strength prediction. Design/methodology/approach This paper presents an investigation of five different machine learning algorithms, namely, multilinear regression, support vector regression, k-nearest neighbors, extreme gradient boosting (XGBOOST) and deep neural network (DNN), that can be used to predict the 28- and 56-day compressive strengths of nine mix designs and four mixing conditions. Two algorithms were designated for fitting the actual and predicted 28- and 56-day compressive strength data. Moreover, the 28-day compressive strength data were implemented to predict 56-day compressive strength. Findings The efficacy of the compressive strength data was predicted by DNN and XGBOOST algorithms. The computation time of the XGBOOST algorithm was apparently faster than the DNN, offering it to be the most suitable strength prediction tool for RMC. Research limitations/implications Since none has been practically adopted the machine learning for strength prediction for RMC, the scope of this work focuses on the commercially available algorithms. The adoption of the modified methods to fit with the RMC data should be determined thereafter. Practical implications The selected algorithms offer efficient prediction for promoting sustainability to the RMC industries. The standard adopting such algorithms can be established, excluding the traditional labor testing. The manufacturers can implement research to introduce machine learning in the quality controcl process of their plants. Originality/value Regarding literature review, machine learning has been assessed regarding the laboratory concrete mix design and concrete performance. A study conducted based on the on-site production and prolonged mixing parameters is lacking.

A Review Paper on the Crucial Factors that Influencing RMC Delivery Operation

The delivery process of ready-mix concrete (RMC) is a critical component in construction projects, influencing the quality, efficiency, and timeliness of concrete placement. This abstract explores the various factors that impact the RMC delivery process, ranging from logistical considerations to concrete properties and customer requirements. Key factors affecting RMC delivery include the distance to the construction site, traffic conditions, weather, regulatory constraints, batching plant operations, order volume, customer specifications, concrete mix design, truck capacity, and communication channels among stakeholders. Each of these factors can significantly influence the success of RMC delivery, posing challenges and opportunities for optimization.

Evolution, Challenges, and Opportunities in Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) Industry in India

Abstract: The Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) industry has undergone significant evolution since its inception, transforming the construction landscape with its efficiency and reliability. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the evolution of the RMC industry, tracing its origins, key milestones, and technological advancements. It also examines the challenges facing the RMC sector, including regulatory hurdles, supply chain constraints, and environmental concerns. Furthermore, the paper explores the opportunities for growth and innovation within the RMC industry, such as embracing digitalization, sustainable practices, and market diversification. By understanding the evolution, addressing the challenges, and seizing the opportunities, stakeholders can navigate the dynamic landscape of the RMC industry and drive its continued advancement.

Effects of the recycled coarse aggregate mixing ratio on the characteristics of concrete with different design strengths

In this study, the characteristics of recycled aggregate concrete according to the mixing ratio of recycled coarse aggregate(RCA) were analyzed for different design strengths to explore the use of recycled materials in the production of ready-mixed concrete. The results show that, depending on the ratio of recycled aggregate, the compressive strength is similar to that of normal concrete and does not deteriorate. Therefore, it is possible to achieve a target design strength. Furthermore, if the ratio of recycled coarse aggregate for concrete is up to 25% of the total aggregate amount (50% of the total coarse aggregate), slump does not cause problems. Our findings show that the higher the design standard strength, the greater the amount of powder, and the more stringent the management of slump reduction, unit quantity, and performance necessary. The obtained results show that recycled aggregate can be used to produce ready-mixed concrete after adjusting its mixing ratio and concrete mix proportions.

Extended discharge time of ready-mixed concrete: Myth or necessity?

A significant volume of pre-mixed concrete is frequently sent back to batching plants for disposal due to various factors such as excessive slump loss during transportation, overproduction, and experimentation with new batches. It is estimated that approximately 3 % of the total concrete production becomes waste. Rejecting numerous truckloads of concrete is typically based on strict adherence to the concrete discharge 90-minute time limit. This study investigates the effects of extending the discharge time on the properties of fresh and hardened ready-mixed concrete, as well as its durability. To emulate typical field construction conditions, we formulated representative concrete mixtures and sourced, batched, and poured them from a local ready-mix concrete supplier. To maintain the concrete's workability without altering the mix design, high-range water reducer (retarder or stabilizer), and air-entrainment admixtures were incorporated as needed. The fresh and hardened concrete properties were evaluated at batching and at time intervals of 60, 90, 120, and 150 minutes for three different concrete mixtures. Fresh concrete properties included air content, slump, and temperature, while hardened concrete properties encompassed compressive strength, freeze-thaw resistance, and surface resistivity. Remarkably, the discharge time had no significant impact on the fresh and hardened concrete properties even up to 150 minutes. This indicates that the strict discharge time limit is overly cautious. Embracing an extended discharge time offers numerous economic and sustainable advantages.

Experimental studies of delayed-release capsulation pellets for applying in dry mixed mortar/concrete

Delayed-release or controlled-release chemical additives are being studied by scientists as a potential solution to effectively and rationally use additive components in the production of cement mortar mixes, ready-mixed concrete. This paper synthesizes delayed-release additive by high-speed cutting-mixing method from two main components, fly ash and SNF additive powder. Releasing SNF from the pellets was described, clarified, and partially quantified through UV-vis spectral analysis, FTIR, OM, and SEM analysis. In addition, the effects on the workability of the mortar were also carried out. The results show that the pelletizing efficiency of the super-speed mixing technique and the positive effects on the mortar properties such as workability and compressive strength.

Material Planning Analysis with Material Requirement Planning Method in High-rise Building Projects

Planning material supplies well is very important in implementing construction projects to ensure smoothness and efficiency. Smoothness includes thorough planning, including ensuring materials are met as planned, while efficiency aims to reduce time and cost. In this study, material planning will be carried out using the Material Requirement planning (MRP) method, using three different lot measurement techniques, namely Lot for Lot (LFL), Economic Order Quantity (EOQ), and Period Order Quantity (POQ). The MRP method is carried out to accurately calculate the amount of material needed to avoid excessive material inventory levels. After the MRP method, the most optimal number of orders and the total cost required for each lot measurement technique are obtained. The results of this study show that the LFL technique produces the optimum number of orders for gelam wood, plywood, reinforcement, bendrat wire, and ready mix concrete. Meanwhile, for materials such as lubricating oil, meranti wood, randu wood, and nails, it is optimal to order using the POQ technique.

Study on Influence of Mechanical Properties of Concrete based on Microbe Supported in Slag

Concrete material with its own excellent properties, plays a vital role in the construction industry, the annual production of about 10 billion tons, which makes concrete become second only to water, the world's second largest amount of material. However, in the actual service process, all kinds of buildings will be affected by their own and environmental factors, concrete is easy to crack, which affects the mechanical properties of concrete decline, this paper in slag as a carrier of microorganisms on the basis of adding nano-SiO2 in ready-mixed concrete, studied its 3d, 7d, 14d, 28d compressive strength changes. The results show that the strength of concrete can be improved by adding the right amount of nano-SiO2. The addition of nano SiO2 can promote the hydration reaction of cement, resulting in more hydration gelling products of concrete, thus reducing the porosity of concrete and improving the compressive strength of concrete. The results of this study provide an important reference value for the practical application of microbial concrete self-healing.

Analisa Postur Kerja untuk Mengukur Risiko Cedera Dengan Metode Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaires, Rapid Upper Limb Assessment dan Rapid Entire Body Assessment

PT. XYZ is a company that focuses on providing construction materials such as ready mix concrete. The workforce is currently in decline due to the reduced prevalence of work behavior. The initial 1 hour produced 100m3 but the realization in the Company only produced 50m3. The purpose of this study was to measure the potential risk of musculoskeletal injury caused by non-ergonomic work postures. The methods used in this study are Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaires (CMDQ), Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA). This study found a significant relationship between the level of musculoskeletal discomfort obtained in respondents through CMDQ with ergonomic risk factors identified through RULA and REBA analysis. These can include poor body position, repetitive movements, or excessive workload. These findings could help in the development of theories regarding ergonomics and factors related to worker health and well-being.

Peninjauan Mutu Beton Ready Mix pada Baching Plant-Surabaya

Quality control review of concrete at PT. Merak Jaya Beton is important to ensure that the work carried out meets quality standards and is implemented according to existing procedures. PT. Merak Jaya Beton is one of the companies in Indonesia that produces precast concrete. At PT. Merak Jaya Beton, quality is highly regarded from trials before being taken to projects (trial mix and F’c)to construction projects (Slump tests), checking the proportions of mixtures and uniformity of basic materials at the batching plant, to hammer test checks. The process of selecting the right concrete materials can determine the amount or quantity of dependency on materials considering the quality requirements of the concrete used. Several specifications of ready-mix concrete are produced to meet the specifications demands from clients. Meanwhile, for material quantity planning based on the production volume to be implemented, it includes material needs, ordering cycles, and the amount of orders. In concrete mixtures, there are materials added during the Mixing process (admixtures), this is aimed to alter the properties of concrete to make it more suitable and cost-effective.