1.

Construction Material Concrete

1.3 Main Uses of Concrete

It makes sense to classify the uses of concrete on the basis of where and how it is produced,
together with its method of application, since these have different requirements and properties.
The sales of cement in four different countries in 2010 are given as an example of how the per-
centages vary for the different distribution and usage channels for the overall methods of use:

Germany USA China India

Approx. 45% Approx. 70% Approx. 40% Approx. 10%
to ready-mix plants to ready-mix plants to ready-mix plants to ready-mix plants
Approx. 30% Approx. 10% Approx. 10% Approx. 15%
precast component precast component precast component precast component
and concrete product and concrete product and concrete product and concrete product
producers producers producers producers
Approx. 15% Approx. 10% Approx. 30% Approx. 20%
contractors contractors contractors contractors
Approx. 10% Approx. 10% Approx. 20% Approx. 55%
other outlets other outlets other outlets other outlets

The requirements for the concrete differ for each of these applications. The right planning and
preparation of the concrete works are crucial for the successful use of this fantastic building
material.

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