ABSTRACT

Ferrocement construction involves the use of conventional cement with fine aggregate
and several layers of steel, with the advantage of higher strength than conventional reinforced
concrete, limited formwork and thinner sections. It is particularly suitable for thin shell
structures, where geometry minimizes bending loads. Architectural flexibility is one of the
main priorities considered in sustainable housing, along with energy efficiency, occupant
comfort, resistance to seismic and tornado events, affordability and durability. Ferrocement’s
historical and present applications are covered, along with other building techniques, in order
to establish best practices and possible improvements. Reducing construction labor is a
particular focus, which has limited ferrocement development in recent years.

CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION 1
1.1 Need for cost effective houses building techniques 1
2. HISTORY OF FERROCEMENT 2-3
3. MATERIAL USED 4-7
3.1 Cement 4
3.2 Fine Aggregates 4
3.3 Water 4
3.4 Admixture 4
3.5 Mortar Mix 5
3.6 Reinforcing Mesh 5
3.7 Skeletal Steel 6
4. METHODS OF FERROCEMENT 8
4.1 Armature method 8
4.2 Closed mould systems 8
4.3 Integrated mould system 8
5. CONSTRUCTION METHODS 9
6. TESTS ON FERROCEMENT SPECIMEN 10-12
6.1 Flexure 10
6.2 Tension 10
6.3 Compression 10
6.4 Shear 10
6.5 Design of Specimens 11
6.6 Test Setup 12
7. APPICATION OF FERROCEMENT 13-17
7.1 Proposed Small House 13
7.1.1 Light Roofing System 14
7.1.2 Joint Details 15
7.1.3Foundations 15
7.1.4 Openings 16
7.2 Tentative Cost 16
7.3 Flexibility of Extension 17
8.0 CASE STUDY 18
9.0 ADVANTAGES & DISADVANTAGES OF FERROCEMENT 19
9.1 Advantages 19
9.2 Disadvantages 19
9.3 Other uses of ferrocement component 19
CONCLUSION 20
REFERENCE 21