Industrial Pavements Design

Abstract

The objective of this research is to describe a set of specific techniques and procedures for the proper construction of concrete pavements for industrial use, usually referred to as industrial pavements.In particular, we will define the mechanical and rheological properties of concrete, necessary for the pavements to maintain the functionality for the entire life of the project. These properties are established taking into account the needs during the execution of the project, static and dynamic loads, and the possible conditions of aggression prompted by the environment in which the floor is located. The specifications about the materials for the construction of any surface layer resistant to abrasions must be determined. The materials used in the execution of the contraction joints, insulation joints and construction joints should also be determined.The reinforcement, in concrete pavements, is generally present in the form of welded mesh, without structural functions. It must absorb the forces generated by movements of thermohygrometric nature. Besides welded mesh, may also be used metallic fibers. Adding fibers to concrete, creates a material with high ductility, capable to endure special stresses (such as accidental stresses caused by falling of metal objects, the strong braking of cars, by the forces of friction in the wheels of the vehicles along the curves, dragging heavy objects etc..) Establishing sufficiently metal fibers allows to increases the flexural strength of the slab. Fibers in the right form, section, length, amount may be added during the mixing of the concrete or they may be added directly to the object. Besides metal fibers, synthetic fibers with different characteristics and compositions can also be used. They have the same function as metal fibers.