DESIGN OF SPHERICAL POLYSTYRENE VOIDED DECK AS AN

ALTERNATIVE FOR CONVENTIONAL ONE-WAY CONCRETE SLAB

A Project Study Proposal

Presented to the Faculty

Of the Civil Engineering Department
School of Engineering and Architecture
Saint Louis University

In Partial Fulfillment
Of the Requirements for the Degree
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

by:

Engr. Raul Apilado

Cubangbang, Jefferson S.
Cura, Eirwell V.
Gumpad, Guiller M.
Sta. Cruz, John Jeric S.
Tulagan, John Lloyd P.
Cunanan, Jeremi J.
Florentino, Luisa Beatrice C.
Santiago, Kate Nicole D.

November 2019
 SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY
School of Engineering and Architecture
Electronics Engineering Department

ENDORSEMENT

This Research entitled “DESIGN OF SPHERICAL POLYSTYRENE VOIDED

DECK AS AN ALTERNATIVE FOR CONVENTIONAL ONE-WAY CONCRETE
SLAB“ prepared and submitted by Jefferson S. Cubangbang, Eirwell V. Cura,
Guiller M. Gumpad, John Jeric S. Sta. Cruz, John Lloyd P. Tulagan, Jeremi
J. Cunanan, Luisa Beatrice C. Florentino, and Kate Nicole D. Santiago in
partial fulfilment of the requirement for the degree BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN
CIVIL ENGINEERING has been examined and hereby recommended for
proposal defense.

ENGR. RAUL APILADO

(signed above printed name)
Promoter/Lead Author

Members of the Panel

ENGR. MARIE KATHLYN DE GUZMAN

Evaluator

ENGR. EDUARDO CRISOSTOMO

Evaluator

ENGR. EMERSON O. GAPUZ MSCE

Undergraduate Research Coordinator
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER I - PROBLEM SETTING .............................................................. １

1.1 Background of the Study .................................................................... １

1.2 Statement of the Problem .................................................................. ３

1.2.1 Statement of the Objectives ............................................................ ５

1.3 Conceptual and Theoretical Framework of the Study ........................ ５

1.4 Scope, Limitations and Delimitation ................................................... ８

1.5 Significance of the Study................................................................. １０

1.6 Management of Multidisciplinary Environments of the Study .......... １１

1.7 Operational Definition of Terms ...................................................... １２

CHAPTER II – RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY ................... １４

2.1 Research Method ............................................................................ １４

2.2 Research Design ............................................................................ １５

2.2.2 Population and Locale of Study ................................................... ３３

2.2.3 Data Gathering Tools ................................................................... ３３

2.2.4 Treatment of Data ........................................................................ ３３

CHAPTER III - REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE .............................. ４０

Bibliography: ............................................................................................ ５０
 CHAPTER I - PROBLEM SETTING

1.1 Background of the Study

Throughout the years, the trend of building construction has been gearing

to a more sustainable development that utilizes innovative materials which

could potentially improve the overall structural performance of a building.

Many studies have been made to incorporate different types of structural

designs and materials such as replacement of low-strength materials to that of

a high-strength material and using byproducts of recycled materials for

optimal structural system (Seungho, & Seunguk, 2018). These methods have

been adopted to help the structural integrity of buildings when subjected to

large amounts of lateral and gravity loads.

In the construction industry, slab is one of the largest structural

members consuming concrete. Due to concrete’s high density, ranging from

2240 to 2400 kg/m3, the slab’s overall dead load is increased which makes

larger cross-sectional area (Paranje, & Kulkarni, 2017). The increase of

thickness for long-spanned structures using a conventional slab induces more

weight into the whole frame, thereby affecting the size of other structural

members. These factors made buildings consume more materials, such as

concrete and steel reinforcements which led many researchers to venture on

studies regarding the reduction of weight of slab to adopt longer lengths and

overcome the concrete’s natural weakness to tension.

In the 1990s, a Bubble deck system was invented by Jorgen Breuning

to reduce the dead weight of concrete slab by 30% and allowing large spans

１
between supports (Adel, & Omar, 2018). Extensive studies also suggest that

by eliminating the concrete at mid-section which performs minimal structural

function on the slab lessens the energy consumption and emission of exhaust

gases. The bubble deck system or also known as the voided slab is seen as

an alternative to overcome the limitations in creating a lighter structure with

the use of a recycled spherical polystyrene.

Polystyrene, commonly known as Styrofoam, is considered to be a

major environmental problem in most countries. These polystyrene waste

from humans are buried into the ground, therefore making polystyrene

products an active contributor in occupying landfill space than other human

wastes. About 25% to 35% by volume of landfills are comprised of

polystyrene products, while 14 million tons of polystyrene wastes are

produced daily around the world (Solyom, 2016).

In the Philippines, Styrofoam is widely used by industries including

electronics, food, cosmetics, and packaging. Majority of the plastic company

are situated Metro Manila, particularly in the CAMANAVA (Caloocan,

Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela) area. Statistical data suggests an average

volume of 500,000 metric-tons of polystyrene from the year 2001 to 2013

(“Philippine Plastics Raw Material Consumption”, 2013).

２
 The use of a recycled spherical Styrofoam which acts as hollowed

cavities within the voided slab decrease the self-weight and increase the

capacity while maintaining the same capabilities as a conventional concrete

slab. The use of 1 kg weight of recycled spherical polystyrene can save up to

100 kg of concrete (Bokil et. al., 2010).

Therefore, this study will focus on design and evaluation of the

behavior and limitations of a hollowed slab using a Styrofoam subjected to a

Universal Testing Machine (UTM). The assessment of its effectiveness to be

used in construction industry is done by comparison of the engineering

properties and the environmental effects of a hollowed slab and a

conventional concrete slab.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Cement plays an important role in construction and is considered as

the most used material for buildings and structures. The production of cement

involves its consumption of large quantities of raw materials and energy which

results to the emission of gaseous compounds such as carbon dioxide (CO 2)

and sulfur dioxide (SO2). In which case, it contributes to the alarming

３
destruction of the ozone and could adversely affect the environment. The

Philippines ranked 4th out of ten other ASEAN countries, having a total

emission of 1,740 million tons yearly on average. In the production of concrete

alone, it yielded a value of 2,021 thousand metric tons having an annual

growth rate of 5.69%. (“Feasibility in Imposing a Tax,” 2016).

In addition, the use of a conventional slab contributes to the increase of

production of cement and larger dimensions of structural members. Many

developing countries utilizes this type of slab for high rise buildings which in

turn limits the span for structures and increases its construction cost. Studies

also indicated that the middle portion of a conventional concrete slab

contributes minimal structural function in terms of bending moment and shear

resistance. As a result, studies have proposed the use of a voided slab to

reduce the production of cement in the construction industry by decreasing

the concrete usage.

A voided slab utilizes a hollowed cavity within the section’s middle strip

by using a spherical polyethylene material. A spherical polystyrene was used

in this study to contribute to the decrease in Styrofoam waste. Different tests

will determine the overall strength and serviceability of the voided slab.

The study aims in answering the following:

a. What is the most efficient and adequate design for a voided slab?

b. What is the effect of Styrofoam used as an alternative for the

conventional hollowed slab?

c. How does the reduction of materials and weight of the structure help

in the achievement of a more sustainable development?

４
 d. What is the effect of the alternative hollowed slab on the structures

economy and serviceability of carrying loads compared to

conventional slab system?

1.2.1 Statement of the Objectives

The focus of this study is to assess the effectiveness of a voided slab as a

replacement for a one- way concrete slab by using a spherical Styrofoam.

Specifically, the study aims the following:

 To develop an economic and innovative building by the process of

Hollowed slab.

 To reduce the building cost by decreasing the overall self- weight of the

slab.

 To reduce the adverse effects of CO2 emission of the environment by

decreasing the concrete use and production.

 To reduce pollution and waste by using a recycled Styrofoam.

1.3 Conceptual and Theoretical Framework of the Study

The framework’s main objective is to assess the effectiveness of

polystyrene voided deck to produce an efficient and economical lightweight

slab. Bubble deck slab eliminates the concrete at the middle portion of the

slab which performs minimal structural function, and utilizes spherical

polyethylene induced in the middle strip of the slab to act as voids (Teja, et.

al. 2012). However, the study adopts the use spherical polystyrene as an

alternative for polyethylene which will act as voids in the middle area of the

５
slab. In addition, the voids that are formed within the slab eliminates 35% the

self-weight of the concrete slab (Kumar, et. al. 2012).

Figure 1 illustrates the paradigm of the study. The study focuses on an

innovative economical design of a one-way bubble deck slab to reduce the

overall weight of the structure. Studies have shown that concrete consumes a

large volume of energy and emits large quantities of carbon dioxide

(Seungho, & Seunguk, 2018). In order to reduce these practices, the study

initiates the evaluation of the design and analysis of a one-way bubble deck

slab as compared to a conventional slab for residential structure.

Figure 1 Conceptual Framework

６
 Figure 1.2 represents the process of analysis and design of the study in

line with the principles of sustainable development. It is presented that the

demand for a safe and economical structures is increasing due to the high

probability of earthquake occurrence in the Philippines. Thereby, one of the

alternatives in order to overcome this situation is the reduction of the overall

weight and dimensions of the structure. The voided slab is a certified

construction system that has been used for the reduction of slabs self-weight

in countries like Netherlands, United Kingdom, Denmark and Germany (Sakin,

2014). The use of a by-product recycled Styrofoam in voided slab helps

reduce the adverse effects of such material to the environment and promotes

a sustainable structure for the environment.

Figure 1.2 Theoretical Framework

７
1.4 Scope, Limitations and Delimitation

1. For the design criteria and analysis of a one-way slab, the Ultimate

Strength Design (USD) method is used as a primary basis.

2. The study is limited to ACI 211.1-91 for Standard Practice for

Selecting Proportions for Normal, Heavyweight, and Mass Concrete

using an Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC).

3. The compressive strength of concrete is limited to 20.7 MPa and the

yield strength of the steel is 227 MPa (Grade 33). Additionally, in the

analysis of the voided slab, the tensile strength and compressive

strength of Styrofoam is neglected.

4. The researchers considered the National Structural Code of the

Philippines (NSCP 2015) Coefficients for continuous beams and slab.

5. The provisions of minimum and maximum parameters for one-way

slab in accordance to NSCP;

5.1 Minimum thickness of slab

5.2 Maximum spacing of reinforcement.

6. The study is limited to the maximum value of loads and load

combinations in accordance to the NSCP 2015.

7. The main bar and temperature bar diameters in the study is limited to

10mm diameter RSB. The minimum concrete cover of slab shall be

20mm, and use 75mm if exposed to earth.

８
8. For the assessment and analysis of the behavior of both the voided

slab and the concrete slab, a Universal Testing Machine (UTM) was

used.

9. The serviceability based on maximum deflection NSCP 2015.

10. Test based on ASTM only

10.1 C31/C31M-19 - Standard Practice for Making and Curing

Concrete Test Specimens in the Field

10.2 C143/C143M - Standard Test Method for Slump of Hydraulic-

Cement Concrete

10.3 C78/C78M-18 - Standard Test Method for Flexural Strength of

Concrete (Using Simple Beam with Third-Point Loading)

10.4 ASTM A615/A615M-18e1 - Standard Specification for Deformed

and Plain Carbon-Steel Bars for Concrete Reinforcement

10.5 ASTM C127-15 - Standard Test Method for Relative Density

(Specific Gravity) and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate

10.6 ASTM C128-15 - Standard Test Method for Relative Density

(Specific Gravity) and Absorption of Fine Aggregate

10.7 ASTM C136 / C136M - 14 - Standard Test Method for Sieve

Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates

11. Dimensions of slab to be tests is 0.8m x 0.45m x 0.125m.

９
1.5 Significance of the Study

Many studies have been incorporated into the reduction of Styrofoam

waste and usage of concrete on the slab of a structure since it affects the

dimensions of the subsequent beams, columns, and foundations. An

alternative was the use of voided slab which eliminates the middle strip of a

concrete slab’s section since it has little contribution to its structural

performance.

The study of polystyrene voided slab is of prime importance to the

construction industry since it will reduce the weight and usage of concrete

during construction without any major compromise on the strength of the

structure. The production of a concrete material will also be lessened due to

lesser volume of concrete use and will decrease the usage of other materials

such as reinforcements and aggregates.

This study will be beneficial to the ecological and environmental

preservation since it will potentially lessen the CO 2 emission during the

production and construction use of concrete. It will also solve the

environmental restrictions imposed in the field of mining upon the collection of

raw materials for its production. The results may serve as a new way into

reducing the adverse effects of Styrofoam to the environment through the

process of recycling.

The study will also challenge academic researchers into considering

subjects which will enhance the integrity of the structure while reducing the

materials used.

１０
1.6 Management of Multidisciplinary Environments of the Study

The Civil Engineering discipline provides a mathematical and theoretical

viewpoint to utilize the natural and man-made resources in the construction

and analysis of the structural member.

The Structural Engineering specialization provides a detailed basis on

the provisions and allowable loads that is used on the design and analysis of

both the polystyrene voided slab and the concrete slab.

The Earthquake Engineering enables us to analyze the behavior of the

structure due to lesser sections of the structural members by reducing the

overall self-weight of the slab.

The Construction Engineering provides accurate application of the

design specifications during the construction of a slab prototype.

The Environmental Engineering discipline establishes a parameter for

the design of a pollution control and mitigation of a waste management

structure that abides with the principles of sustainable development.

The Materials Engineering concerns in the development, process, and

testing of materials used in the study.

The Value Engineering allows the researchers to perform a creative

organized effort of cost comparison between the voided slab and the

conventional concrete slab.

１１
1.7 Operational Definition of Terms

Bubble Deck System - otherwise known as Voided Slab or Hollowed Slab, is

a type of reinforced concrete slabs which utilizes air-filled voids to reduce the

required volume of concrete.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) - is a colorless, odorless natural occurring gas

produced by burning carbon and organic compounds.

Compressive Strength (f’c) - is a limit state of compressive stress that leads

to failure in a material in the manner of ductile failure (infinite theoretical yield)

or brittle failure (rupture as a result of crack propagation).

Conventional Concrete Slab - a type of slab reinforced with steel bars that is

supported by beams and columns.

Dead Load - consist of the weight of the members, supported structure, and

permanent attachments or accessories that are likely to be present on a

structure in service.

Live Load - is a load that may change in position and magnitude which are

caused when a structure is occupied, used, and maintained (excluding

environmental loads).

Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) - a type of cement commonly used around

the world as a basic ingredient for concrete, mortar, stucco, and non- special

grout.

Polystyrene - otherwise known as Styrofoam, is a type of thermoplastic that

is used for packing, electronics, furniture, industrial machinery and

transportation.

１２
Sulfur Oxide (SO2) - is a colorless, pungent chemical compound which is

commonly used industrial chemical formed by burning sulfur in air.

Serviceability - refers to the building condition under which it is still

considered to be useful.

Sustainable Development - is an economic development conducted that

meets the need of the present without depletion of natural resources.

Tensile Strength (fy) - is the maximum amount of tensile stress that a

structure can take before permanent damage or breaking.

Two- way slab - is a type of slab which is supported by beams on four sides

that bends on two directions when subjected to loads.

１３
 CHAPTER II – RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY

2.1 Research Method

The methods used in the design and analysis of the polystyrene voided

slab were based on the Analytical and Experimental Research Method. These

were the primary approach used to obtain the results needed to prove that a

Polystyrene voided slab can be an alternative for conventional concrete slab.

Figure 1.3 shows the flow of activities and steps needed for the

completion of the study. The first phase of the study is to initiate a preliminary

design of a voided slab as based on NSCP 2015 specifications. The hollowed

slab is treated using the analysis of T-beams to consider the voids within the

slab. The computed values for the design are checked in provisions and

limitations mandated by the code for a one-way slab.

Figure 1.3 Research Method

１４
 The second phase involves the fabrication of a prototype for testing and

analysis of the behavior of both the conventional slab and that of a voided

slab. A recycled spherical Styrofoam is used which will act as a void for the

middle strip of the slab. The criteria for the design involve the use of a normal

weight concrete and a grade 33 steel for a one-way slab.

After the fabrication, a test analysis was done and classified based on the

recommendations of the American Standard of Testing Methods (ASTM). The

ASTM tests are as follows: Flexural Strength of Concrete, Compressive

Strength of Cylindrical Concrete and Making and Curing Concrete Test

Specimens which utilizes the use of a Universal Testing Machine (UTM). The

data acquired helped with the determination of an economical and sustainable

design of a voided slab for the study.

2.2 Research Design

2.2.1 Production of Conventional Slab and Spherical Voided Slab

Figure 1.4 shows the methods used to produce conventional slab and

spherical polystyrene voided slab.

Procedures and guidelines are provided in order to produce sample of

conventional slab and spherical polystyrene voided slab that will be subjected

to test in order to determine its effectiveness.

１５
 Figure 1.4 Methods of Production

2.2.1.a Preparation

I. Equipment and Apparatus

a. Moisture cans

b. Oven

c. Electronic balance

d. Wire basket

e. Pan

f. Triple beam balance

１６
 g. Vacuum

h. Pycnometer

i. Thermometer

j. Tamping rod

k. Mold and scoop

l. Standard sieves

II. Properties of Aggregates

a. Moisture content as per ASTM C127-15 and ASTM C128-15

i. Clean and dry 3 pieces if moisture cans and label each can;

ii. Prepare a representative sample from the gravel and sand to be

worked on;

iii. Put an amount of gravel and sand on at least 3 cans then

measure the weight of cans with the sample on it. Record the

weights as Mwet;

iv. Oven dry the cans with soil sample in it for at least a duration of

24 hours;

v. After the cans with sample had been oven dried for 24 hours.

Weigh the oven dried can with sample and record the data as

Mdry; and

vi. Compute for the moisture content of the 3 samples by apply the

formula:

𝑀𝑤𝑒𝑡 − 𝑀𝑑𝑟𝑦
𝑀𝑜𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑡, 𝑤 =
𝑀𝑑𝑟𝑦

１７
b. Specific Gravity Test of Coarse Aggregates as per ASTM C127-15

i. Obtain a sample of coarse aggregates (gravel), about 2kg. Place

it on a pan and wash the measured gravel with water. Saturate

the gravel in the water for about 24 hours;

ii. Get the saturated gravel and drain the water;

iii. Wipe the material by using a piece of cloth or papers and let it dry

until the color of the gravel turned into light gray. This indicates

that all the water has left the sample;

iv. Get a wire basket then measure its weight by hanging it on the

triple beam balance, record this as weight of basket in air;

v. Weigh the same basket by submerging it on the water. Record

this as weight of basket in water;

vi. Place the entire sample in the basket and weigh the saturated

surface dry sample in air and record it;

vii. This time, the sample in the basket should be submerged in the

water and record its weight;

viii. Remove the basket from the water and so is the sample. Let the

sample dry and put it on a pan. Take note of the weight of the

pan;

ix. Put the pan with sample into the oven to dry the sample; and

x. For 24 hours get the sample from the oven and record the weight

of the basket and the oven-dried sample.

１８
c. Specific Gravity Test of Fine Aggregates as per ASTM C128-15

i. Obtain a sample of fine aggregates (sand), about 1kg. Place it on

a pan and wash the measured gravel with water. Saturate the

gravel in the water for about 24 hours;

ii. After 24 hours. Drain the water and get the sample out of the pan;

iii. Using a blower, dry the material until the color of the sand turned

into light gray. This indicates that all the water has left the sample;

iv. If the sample is already dry, weigh a saturated surface dry sample

of 500g;

v. Measure the weight of the bottle, volumetric flask, and record the

weight;

vi. Fill the bottle with water until its calibration mark. Record the

weight of this as weight of bottle and water. For about 60

seconds, place the thermometer inside and record the

temperature reading;

vii. Remove some water from the bottle for about 3/4 of the volume.

Then put the 500g sample into the bottle. Add additional water to

return the level to its calibration mark. Record the weight of this

and also, record the temperature after 60 seconds;

viii. Use the vacuum for about 10-15 minutes to eliminate the air

bubbles present from the sample. After which determine the total

mass of the sample with water and bottle;

ix. Get a pan and take note of its weight;

１９
 x. Drain the water from the bottle and remove the sample. Place the

sample on the pan. Make sure that it has no water before putting

it in the oven to dry the sample; and

xi. For 24 hours, get the sample from the oven and weight the oven-

dried sample and record it.

d. Unit Weight of Fine Aggregates and Coarse Aggregates

i. Dry the aggregate sample in the oven. Then cool to room

temperature. Place the aggregate on the mixing tray;

ii. Weigh the mold to be used and record it;

iii. Measure the dimensions of the mold. Get its inside diameter and

height using a ruler;

iv. Fill the mold with aggregate by using a scoop. Pour it 1ft above

the mouth of the mold until it is full. Then, level the top surface of

the aggregate by using the tamping rod;

v. Determine the weight of the mold with loose sample and record it;

vi. Spill the aggregate on the mixing tray. Fill again the mold by

measuring 1/3 full of aggregate and tamp it 25 times using the

tamping rod. Add another layer of 1/3 volume of aggregate and

give another 25 strokes of tamping rod. Then fill the mold until it is

full and tamp it 25 times. Remove the excess aggregate using the

rod;

vii. Determine the weight of mold with recorded sample and record it;

viii. Again, spill the aggregate on the mixing tray. Fill the mold with

aggregate in three layers. In every layer, do 25 times of jigging by

２０
 allowing the base of the mold to raise about 50mm on each side.

When it is already full, level the top surface using the rod;

ix. Determine the weight of mold using jigged sample and record it;

and

x. Calculate the unit weight of the aggregate using the formula.

𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡
𝛾=
𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑜𝑙𝑑

e. Fineness Modulus of Sand as per ASTM C136 / C136M – 14

i. Sieve the aggregate using the appropriate sieves (80 mm, 40 mm,

20mm, 10mm, 2.75 mm 2.36mm, 1.18mm, 600 micron, 300

micron, and 150 micron),

ii. Record the weight of aggregate retained on each sieve;

iii. Calculate the cumulative weight of aggregate retained on each

sieve;

iv. Calculate the cumulative percentage of aggregate retained;

𝑁(100) − 𝑆𝑢𝑚 𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑜𝑓 𝑃𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑃𝑎𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑔

𝐹𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑠𝑠 𝑀𝑜𝑑𝑢𝑙𝑢𝑠 =
100
Where:
N = number of sieves involve in the sum total of percent passing from the
largest size noted to and including the No. 100 (150-μm) sieve.

v. Add the cumulative weight of aggregate retained and divide the

sum by 100. This value is termed as fineness modulus;

vi. Calculate the Fineness Modulus given the formula:

２１
 f. Standard Specification for Deformed and Plain Carbon-Steel

Bars for Concrete Reinforcement as per ASTM A615/A615M-18e1

i. Get the length, diameter and weight of the steel;

ii. Place marks that are 20cm apart from each other with chisel;

iii. Subject the steel bar for testing;

iv. Record the data produced data of UTM;

v. Record the deformed length of the steel;

vi. Get the stress-strain diagram based on data produced by UTM;

and

vii. Check the yield strength of steel if passed based on its

commercial grade.

2.2.1.b Concrete Mixing and Pouring

a. Assembly the formworks of slab having a dimension of 800mm x

425mm x 125mm

i. Prepare a cutting list of formworks, using 1’’ thick of Phenolic

Board:

1. 2 -Pcs of 451 x 826mm boards

2. 2 - pcs of 826 x 125mm boards

ii. Assemble the formworks to be used in the orientation of the slab;

and

iii. Use common wire nails of 2 inches depth to fasten the boards.

２２
b. Installation of Reinforcing Bars and Set of Styrofoam

I. Installation of Reinforcing Bars

i. Prepare the cutting list of reinforcing bars which includes:

1. 4-pcs of 800mm-10mm D bars

2. 4-pcs of 425mm-10mm D bars

ii. Layout the location of the main reinforcing bars and assemble

them longitudinally in the formworks, make sure that the concrete

cover of 25mm is followed using spacers;

iii. Layout the location of temperature bars in the formworks and

assemble it transversely just top of the main reinforcing bars.

II. Styrofoam Spherical Voids

i. The minimum cover of voids should be kept at 25mm top and

bottom;

ii. Check for the consistency of voids. There must be no defects on

its surfaces; and

iii. Layout location of voids and assemble the voids in its proper

location in such a way that it won’t touch any part of the steel

bars. The 25 mm concrete cover must also be maintained through

all voids.

c. Standard Practice for Selecting Proportions for Normal,

Heavyweight, and Mass Concrete as per ACI 211.1-91

i. Choice of slump ꟷ If slump is not specified, a value appropriate

for the work can be selected from Table 6.3.1. The slump ranges

shown apply when vibration is used to consolidate the concrete.

２３
 Mixes of the stiffest consistency that can be placed efficiently

should be used;

ii. Choice of maximum size of aggregate ꟷ Large nominal maximum

sizes of well graded aggregates have less voids than smaller

sizes. Hence, concretes with the larger-sized aggregates require

less mortar per unit volume of concrete. Generally, the nominal

maximum size of aggregate should be the largest that is

economically available and consistent with dimensions of the

structure. In no event should the nominal maximum size exceed

one-fifth of the narrowest dimension between sides of forms, one-

third the depth of slabs, nor three-fourths of the minimum clear

spacing between individual reinforcing bars, bundles of bars, or

pretensioning strands. These limitations are sometimes waived if

workability and methods of consolidation are such that the

concrete can be placed without honeycomb or void. In areas

congested with reinforcing steel, post-tension ducts or conduits,

the proportioner should select a nominal maximum size of the

aggregate so concrete can be placed without excessive

segregation, pockets, or voids. When high strength concrete is

desired, best results may be obtained with reduced nominal

maximum sizes of aggregate since these produce higher

strengths at a given water-cement ratio;

iii. Estimation of mixing water and air content ꟷ The quantity of water

per unit volume of concrete required to produce a given slump is

dependent on: the nominal maximum size, particle shape, and

２４
 grading of the aggregates; the concrete temperature; the amount

of entrained air; and use of chemical admixtures. Slump is not

greatly affected by the quantity of cement or cementitious

materials within normal use levels (under favorable circumstances

the use of some finely divided mineral admixtures may lower

water requirements slightly ꟷ see AC1 212.1R). Table 6.3.3

provides estimates of required mixing water for concrete made

with various maximum sizes of aggregate, with and without air

entrainment. Depending on aggregate texture and shape, mixing

water requirements may be somewhat above or below the

tabulated values, but they are sufficiently accurate for the first

estimate. The differences in water demand are not necessarily

reflected in strength since other compensating factors may be

involved. A rounded and an angular coarse aggregate, both well

and similarly graded and of good quality, can be expected to

produce concrete of about the same compressive strength for the

same cement factor in spite of differences in w/c or w/(c + y)

resulting from the different mixing water requirements. Treated

concrete has the same or a lower water-cement ratio and does

not exhibit segregation potential and excessive bleeding. When

only used to increase slump, chemical admixtures may not

improve any of the properties of the concrete;

iv. Selection of water-cement or water cementitious materials ratio ꟷ

The required w/c or w/(c + p) is determined not only by strength

requirements but also by factors such as durability. Since different

２５
 aggregates, cements, and cementitious materials generally

produce different strengths at the same w/c or w/(c + p), it is

highly desirable to have or to develop the relationship between

strength and w/c or w/(c + p) for the materials actually to be used.

In the absence of such data, approximate and relatively

conservative values for concrete containing Type I Portland

cement can be taken from Table 6.3.4(a). With typical materials,

the tabulated w/c or w/(c + p) should produce the strengths

shown, based on 28-day tests of specimens cured under standard

laboratory conditions. The average strength selected must, of

course, exceed the specific strength by a sufficient margin to keep

the number of low tests within specific limits ꟷ see ACI 214 and

ACI 318;

v. Calculation of cement content – The amount of cement per unit

volume of concrete is fixed by the determinations made in Steps 3

and 4 above. The required cement is equal to the estimated

mixing-water content (Step 3) divided by the water-cement ratio

(Step 4). If, however, the specification includes a separate

minimum limit on cement in addition to requirements for strength

and durability, the mixture must be based on whichever criterion

leads to the larger amount of cement. The use of pozzolanic or

chemical admixtures will affect properties of both the fresh and

hardened concrete. See ACI 212;

vi. Estimation of coarse aggregate content ꟷ Aggregates of

essentially the same nominal maximum size and grading will

２６
 produce concrete of satisfactory workability when a given volume

of coarse aggregate, on an oven-dry rodded basis, is used per

unit volume of concrete. Appropriate values for this aggregate

volume are given in Table 6.3.6. It can be seen that, for equal

workability, the volume of coarse aggregate in a unit volume of

concrete is dependent only on its nominal maximum size and the

fine- ness modulus of the fine aggregate. Differences in the

amount of mortar required for workability with different

aggregates, due to differences in particle shape and grading, are

compensated for automatically by differences in oven dry-rodded

void content;

vii. Estimation of fine aggregate content – At completion of Step 6, all

ingredients of the concrete have been estimated except the fine

aggregate. Its quantity is determined by difference. Either of two

procedures may be employed: the weight method or the absolute

volume method; and

viii. Adjustments for aggregate moisture ꟷ The aggregate quantities

actually to be weighed out for the concrete must allow for

moisture in the aggregates. Generally, the aggregates will be

moist and their dry weights should be increased by the

percentage of water they contain, both absorbed and surface. The

mixing water added to the batch must be reduced by an amount

equal to the free moisture contributed by the aggregate i.e., total

moisture minus absorption.

２７
d. Standard Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens

in the Field as per C31 / C31M-19

i. Weigh the required amount of coarse aggregate, fine aggregate,

Portland cement, and water as per the mix design of concrete;

ii. Mix the materials in the mixer for 2 to 5 minutes;

iii. Check the slump (ASTM C143/C143M – 15), air content and

temperature of concrete;

iv. For cylindrical specimens, place concrete into the mold using

scoop or trowel. Fill the cylinder in three equal layers and rod

each later 25 times. Tap the outside of the cylinder 10 to 15 times

after each layer is rodded. Strike off the top and smooth the upper

surface. Vibrators can also be used to consolidate the concrete

instead of rodding. Vibration is optional if the slump is between

25mm to 75mm (1in to 3in) and is required if the slump is less

than 25mm (1in);

v. For beam or slab specimens, grease the sides of the mold and fill

the molds with concrete in two layers. Consolidate the concrete

be either tamping each layer 60 times until uniformly distributed

throughout or by vibrating. After consolidation, finish the surface

by striking off and smoothing the surface;

vi. Cover the mold with wet cloth to minimize evaporation;

vii. Remove the molds after 16 to 36 hours; and

viii. Submerge the specimen in water for curing.

２８
e. Standard Test Method for Slump of Hydraulic-Cement Concrete as

per ASTM C143/C143M – 15

i. Dampen the mold and place it on a rigid, flat, level, moist,

nonabsorbent surface, free of vibration, and that is large enough to

contain all of the slumped concrete. It shall be held firmly in place

during filling and perimeter cleaning by the operator standing on

the two-foot pieces or by a clamping arrangement to a base plate.

From the sample of concrete, immediately fill the mold in three

layers, each approximately one third the volume of the mold. Place

the concrete in the mold using the scoop. Move the scoop around

the perimeter of the mold opening to ensure an even distribution of

the concrete with minimal segregation.

NOTE 5—One third of the volume of the slump mold fills it to a depth of

25⁄8 in. [70 mm]; two thirds of the volume fills it to a depth of 61⁄8 in.

[160 mm];

ii. Rod each layer 25 times uniformly over the cross section with the

rounded end of the rod. For the bottom layer, this will necessitate

inclining the rod slightly and making approximately half of the

strokes near the perimeter, and then progressing with vertical

strokes spirally toward the center. Rod the bottom layer throughout

its depth. For each upper layer, allow the rod to penetrate through

the layer being rodded and into the layer below approximately 1 in.

[25 mm];

iii. In filling and rodding the top layer, heap the concrete above the

mold before rodding is started. If the rodding operation results in

２９
 subsidence of the concrete below the top edge of the mold, add

additional concrete to keep an excess of concrete above the top of

the mold at all times. After the top layer has been rodded, strike off

the surface of the concrete by means of a screeding and rolling

motion of the tamping rod. Continue to hold the mold down firmly

and remove concrete from the area surrounding the base of the

mold to preclude interference with the movement of slumping

concrete. Remove the mold immediately from the concrete by

raising it carefully in a vertical direction. Raise the mold a distance

of 12 in. [300 mm] in 5 6 2 s by a steady upward lift with no lateral

or torsional motion. Complete the entire test from the start of the

filling through removal of the mold without interruption and

complete it within an elapsed time of 21⁄2 min; and

iv. Immediately measure the slump by determining the vertical

difference between the top of the mold and the displaced original

center of the top surface of the specimen. If a decided falling away

or shearing off of concrete from one side or portion of the mass

occurs (Note 6), disregard the test and make a new test on another

portion of the sample.

NOTE 6— If two consecutive tests on a sample of concrete show a

falling away or shearing off of a portion of the concrete from the mass

of the specimen, the concrete probably lacks necessary plasticity and

cohesiveness for the slump test to be applicable.

３０
2.2.1.c Dismantling and Curing

a. Removing Formworks

i. Gently remove the formworks of conventional slab and voided

slab after 24 hours being casted; and

ii. Prepare the specimen for curing as per C31 / C31M-19

b. Removing Cylindrical Molds

i. Gently remove the cylindrical molds after 16 to 36 hours being

casted; and

ii. Prepare the cylindrical concrete sample for curing as per C31 /

C31M-19.

c. Curing as per C31 / C31M-19

i. Prepare a container than can accommodate the specimens and

pour water until all of the specimen will be totally submerged;

ii. Gently submerge the specimen in the water for curing.

2.2.1.d Testing

a. Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical

Concrete Specimens as per C39/C39M-18

i. Measure the actual diameter of the specimen to the nearest

0.25mm (0.01in) by averaging two diameters measured at right

angle to each other at the middle height of the specimen;

３１
 ii. Put capping on the top surface of the cylinder to ensure

distribution of load;

iii. Conduct compression test on the moist-cured specimen 1-day

after removing them from curing;

iv. Subject the specimens to compression test using the UTM and

record the compressive strength of the cylindrical concrete

specimen; and

v. Check if the compressive strength passed based on the strength

of concrete mix design.

b. Standard Test Method for Flexural Strength of Concrete (Using

Simple Beam with Third-Point Loading) as per C78/C78M-18

i. Turn the specimen on its side, with respect to its position as

molded and center it on the bearing blocks;

ii. Center the loading system in relation in the applied force. Use

third-point loading;

iii. Apply the load rapidly up to approximately 50% of breaking load.

Apply load continuously;

iv. Record the data produced by the UTM; and

v. Check if the actual flexural strength of the specimen passed

based on the theoretical flexural strength.

３２
2.2.1.e Interpretation of Data

I. Tabulation of Results using Microsoft Excel

2.2.2 Population and Locale of Study

The study is limited to the design of polystyrene voided slab which can be

used in all types of structures that offers a more sustainable construction

option. The construction industry uses large amounts of concrete due to

bigger dimensions for longer spanned structures. The slab generally

contributes to the overall dead load that the beams carry which in turn affects

the other structural members. It can be inferred that the study is fit for the

increasing demand of developing countries for a more sustainable

development type of structures.

2.2.3 Data Gathering Tools

The study utilizes the use of a Universal Testing Machine (UTM) to

compare the data needed to prove the study. Observation and analysis

regarding the slab’s behavior such as flexural strength, compressive strength,

maximum loading, shear capacity and failure modes are done for the study.

The comparison and analysis are done to both the voided slab and the

conventional one by theoretical method of finding values for the ultimate

moment and by experiment method through the use of UTM.

2.2.4 Treatment of Data

The study adapted a similar analysis to that of a T-Beam in order to

evaluate the location of the effective area of concrete of the slab. The data

３３
gathered was processed to comply with the NSCP 2015 provisions. The

ASTM manuals and standards were also used to serve as a guideline in

preparation and testing of the samples.

A comparison between the strength of a conventional slab with the

proposed voided slab is done using the provisions stated in NSCP 2015. The

thickness, yield strength of steel, clear spacing of main bars, and the

compressive strength of concrete used in the design of the one-way voided

slab was made similar with the parameters for the conventional slab to yield

non-biased result through the same slab characteristics.

D10mm Temperature Bars

D10mm Main Bars

D75mm
Spherical
Styrofoam

３４
 Parameters

f’c= 20.7 MPa Slab thickness= 135mm

fy= 276 MPa Spacing of main bars= 125 mm

One-way voided slab

Clear spacing of spherical voids= 50 mm Concrete cover= 30mm

Depth= 100mm

Conventional One-way Slab

Concrete cover= 20mm

Depth= 110mm

One-way voided slab analyzed as T-Beam

Assuming steel yields first:

𝐶=𝑇
′
0.85𝑓 𝑐 ∗ 𝐴𝑐 = 𝐴𝑠 ∗ 𝑓𝑦
𝜋
0.85 ∗ 20.7 ∗ 𝐴𝑐 = ( ∗ 102 ) ∗ 276
4
𝐴𝑐 = 1232 𝑚𝑚2

𝐴𝑓 = 𝑏𝑓 ∗ 𝑡
𝐴𝑓 = 125𝑚𝑚 ∗ 30𝑚𝑚
𝐴𝑓 = 3750𝑚𝑚2

Criteria:

𝐴𝑓(3750𝑚𝑚2 ) > 𝐴𝑐(1232 𝑚𝑚2 )

∴𝑎<𝑡

𝐴𝑐
𝑎=
𝑏𝑓
1232𝑚𝑚2
𝑎=
125𝑚𝑚
𝑎 = 9.86𝑚𝑚

３５
 𝑎 9.86𝑚𝑚
∴𝑐= = = 11.6𝑚𝑚
𝛽 0.85

Validation:

600(𝑑 − 𝑐 )
𝑓𝑠 =
𝑐
600(100 − 11.6)
𝑓𝑠 =
11.6
𝑓𝑠 = 4572.41𝑀𝑝𝑎 > 𝑓𝑦 (276)

∴ 𝑨𝒔𝒔𝒖𝒎𝒑𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒚𝒊𝒆𝒍𝒅𝒔 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒓𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒕

𝑎
𝑀𝑢 = 0.9 ∗ 𝐴𝑠 ∗ 𝑓𝑦 ∗ (𝑑 − )
2
𝜋 9.86
0.9 ∗ (4 ∗ 102 ) ∗ 276 ∗ (100 − 2 )
𝑀𝑢 =
106

𝑀𝑢 = 1.85 𝐾𝑛 ⋅ 𝑚

𝟖𝑴𝒖 = 𝟏𝟒. 𝟖𝟑𝟖 𝑲𝒏 • 𝒎

A. Conventional one-way slab

𝐴𝑠𝑡
𝐴𝑠 =
𝑆
𝜋 2
( ∗ 10 )
𝐴𝑠 = 4 ∗ 1000
125𝑚𝑚
𝐴𝑠 = 628.319𝑚𝑚2
𝐴𝑠
𝜌=
𝑏𝑑
628.319𝑚𝑚2
𝜌=
1000 ∗ 110
𝜌 = 0.005712

Criteria:
1.4 1.4
𝜌𝑚𝑖𝑛 = 𝑓𝑦 = 276 = 0.00507
0.85 ∗ 𝑓 ′ 𝑐 ∗ 𝛽 ∗ 600 0.85 ∗ 20.7 ∗ 0.85 ∗ 600
𝜌𝑏𝑎𝑙 = = = 0.0371
𝑓𝑦(600 + 𝑓𝑦) 276(600 + 276)
𝜌min (0.00507) < 𝜌(0.005712) < 𝜌𝑏𝑎𝑙 (0.0371)

∴ 𝝆 = 𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟓𝟕𝟏𝟐 𝒈𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒔

３６
 𝑓𝑦
𝑀𝑢 = 0.9𝜌𝑏𝑑 2 𝑓𝑦 (1 − 0.59𝜌 )
𝑓′𝑐
276
0.9(0.005712)(1000)(1102 )(276) (1 − 0.59(0.005712) (20.7))
𝑀𝑢 =
106
𝑴𝒖 = 𝟏𝟔. 𝟒𝟎 𝑲𝑵 • 𝒎

B. Percentage Difference

(16.40𝐾𝑛 ⋅ 𝑚 − 14.838𝐾𝑛 ⋅ 𝑚)
% 𝐷𝑒𝑐𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑒 = 𝑥 100%
(16.40𝐾𝑛 ⋅ 𝑚)

%𝑫𝒆𝒄𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆 = 𝟗. 𝟓𝟐%

These computation shows the theoretical relationship in strength

reduction between the one-way conventional and voided slab. The moment

capacity of the conventional one-way slab yielded a moment capacity of 16.40

KN⋅m, but when voids were introduced into the slab, the moment capacity

decreased to 14.838 KN⋅m.

Theoretically, there is a 9.52% decrease in the moment capacity if

voids are introduced into the slab.

Where:

C= Compression

T= tension

fy= yield strength of concrete, MPa

f’c= compressive strength of concrete, MPa

Ac= area of concrete, mm2

As= area of steel reinforcement, mm2

Af= area of flange of T-beam, mm

bf= base of flange of T-beam, mm

t= thickness of flange, mm

３７
h= thickness of slab, mm

a= depth of equivalent stress block, mm

c= distance from extreme compression fiber to neutral axis, mm

fs= calculated stress in reinforcement at service loads, MPa

S= spacing, mm

Mu= factored moment at section, KN-m

The ultimate moment is computed for both conventional slab and

polystyrene voided deck to compare both strengths. The data gathered is

evaluated whether it gained or reduced strength as compared to the use of

conventional slab. Subsequent load capacity used for the study of each slab

is justified from the test results of the UTM.

Figure 1.5 shows the detailed design for a one- way voided slab based

on the theoretical analysis and computation

Figure 1.5 Voided Slab Details

３８
 Figure 1.6.a and 1.6.b shows the theoretical cross-sectional detail of the

voided slab.

Figure 1.6.a Voided Slab Cross Section

Figure 1.6.b Voided Slab Cross Section

３９
 CHAPTER III - REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

A review of related literature was made to identify, evaluate and

synthesizes the relevant literature within a particular field of research. This

helps researchers to point out the important aspects of their chosen topic that

includes the key sources related to the topic, trends and gaps in their

research area.

Bubble deck slab is a self-supporting innovative and sustainable floor.

It has the methodology of eliminating concrete that is non-performing

structural function and reducing the structural dead loads therefore, removing

constraints of high dead loads and short spans.

Jorgen Bruenig developed the first biaxial hollow slab also known as

the "Bubble Deck" in Denmark late 1990's. In Denmark and Holland, the two-

way concrete slab system was developed. Bubble deck became an integral

part of the Millennium Tower and this became significant from engineers and

researchers worldwide.

Bubble deck flat slab allows the possibility of eliminating down-stand

beams and column heads which make it more cost-efficient with having 3% of

the project cost can be reduced by the manufacturer and making it more

rapid. Bubble deck has many advantages compared to conventional concrete

slab such as cost-efficient, materials used are reduced, time construction

decreases, environment-friendly, improves structural efficiency, and useful in

reducing earthquake damage. Another advantage of a bubble deck is that the

supporting constructions such as columns and foundations can be less heavy

and with the floor system itself, which eventually results in a 50% saving on

４０
the building construction. In addition, Bubble deck slab floor can provide the

required load-bearing capacity at smaller thickness as to the advantage of

saving weight and can result in 40 to 50% saving of the material consumption

in the floor construction. Bubble Deck slabs behavior is influenced by the slab

thickness-to-bubble diameter ratio.

There is a reduction of 40kg/m2 of emitted carbon dioxide into the

atmosphere that comes from the production of concrete and transportation of

materials, and for every 1kg of plastic (HDPE) replaces approximately 100kg

of concrete.

STUDIES REGARDING BUBBLE DECK SLAB

Hanche & Shetkar (2015). The experimental program was achieved

through a Laboratory of Full-Scale Structural Testing to investigate the

behavior of the bubble deck slab by using spherical balls. Studies showed that

modified elliptical balls have greater ultimate loading with having the same

dimension and concrete grade compared with using other plastic balls. By

using the same amount of concrete and with the same dimensions increases

the configuration that bubble slab gives improved flexural capacity, stiffness,

and shear of at least 70% and 30 to 50% of the concrete economy as

compared to a solid slab.

Gupta & Jain (2017). The bridge deck model was designed and

analyzed by the software in finite element analysis in the static and dynamic

analysis of the solid slab as well as the bubble deck slab. Further analysis

was conducted to compare the response of this new kind of slab and the

conventional slab to be able to perceive the previous study conducted on the

４１
bubble deck. A 3-dimensional solid slab and bubble deck slab was made

within the ANYSIS 2000 with complete dimension as in used in the laboratory

testing. On the analysis, the maximum moment and internal stress of the

bubble deck were 64% higher than the solid deck. The observations under the

bubble deck slab with having slab dimensions of 660mm, 330mm, 14cm of

the length, width and depth respectively, that the maximum shear loading was

157.6 kilonewton and plates cracks appeared at the load of 60 kilonewtons.

The shear strength of the bubble deck voided slab was determined to be 60 to

80% of the conventional slab with having the same depth in accordance with

the theoretical models. Therefore, a reduction factor of 0.6 is to be applied to

the shear capacity of the bubble deck since shear is also a major concern for

the design. The shear strength of the slab is directly proportional to the

effective mass of concrete.

Varshney, Jauhari &Bhatt (2017). For the compressive strength and

flexural capabilities, although upon removing the un-stressed concreted

portion of a solid slab and replacing it with a spherical hollow HDPE, there

were no significant difference between a bubble deck slab and a conventional

solid slab. And in terms of flexural strength, the resisting moments of the two

slabs are the same.

Jamal & Jolly (2017). Finite Element Method was to study the

structural behavior of the bubble deck slab with spherical and elliptical balls

that were subjected to uniformly distributed load with boundary conditions.

According to them, the behavior of the bubble deck slab is determined by the

ratio of bubble diameter to slab thickness. Reinforcement can be either tied or

welded. They are placed as two meshes, one at the top part and the other

４２
one at the bottom part. The distance between all of the bars was kept, making

sure that the dimensions of the bubbles that were provided between the top

and bottom meshes correspond to it. Through this technology, the ellipsoids

between the top and bottom reinforcement meshes can be locked. It creates a

natural cell structure that acts like a solid slab.

Teja & Kumar according to their study on the shrinkage strains of

bubble deck slab and conventional solid slab, results have shown that the

shrinkage of the bubble deck slab is negligible than a solid slab under same

exposure to environmental conditions. Due to a small portion of concrete is

exposed onto the environment, the influence of shrinkage may be neglected

in designing a structure with the use of bubble deck system.

Anusha, Kumar, Mounika, Saha & Teja (2012). According to their

study, the shear resistance of a bubble deck slab is 0.6 times the conventional

slab that should be on the same thickness. As compared to the calculated

values of a solid deck, the average shear capacity measured is 91% for the

bubble deck slab.

Almost 35% can be eliminated by using plastic spheres in the middle of

the slab were void forms. Whenever a building is demolished or renovated,

the spheres used can still be can be recycled. The slab thickness of the

bubble deck is directly proportional to the bubble diameter as this influences

its behavior.

When it comes with the durability, having a standard grade of concrete

and a suitable design for reinforcements this would give the bubble deck slab

system of equal normal durability standards in comparison with the solid slab.

４３
In addition, for a joint of a bubble deck slab, chamfer is present on the inside

to assure that the reinforcement will not have contact with air to have it

surrounded with concrete. Bubble deck slab durability is not essentially

distinct from normal strong slabs.

Bubble deck slab is not designed to be resistive on high temperatures

due to an incorporated spherical hollow HDPE in the middle of the slab.

Researchers found out that bubble deck slab system has approximately 17%

to 39% higher thermal resistance as compared to a conventional slab, having

the same thickness, hence, this system may contribute towards thermal

insulation on the overall construction.

For Sound insulation, the reduction of weight is the main criterion for

reducing noise, therefore, making bubble deck not react than other decks with

equal weight. A comparison was made between a bubble deck and a one-way

prefabricated hollow deck of the same height and the result shows that there

is a 1db noise reduction on the bubble deck higher than the one-way

prefabricated hollow deck.

For Vibration, the Bubble deck slab is lightweight that may be exploited

if it can usefully alter the modal frequencies of a slab and is not subject to

vibration. In comparison to solid slab, the bubble deck slab can give up to 2

times the stiffness obtained from that of a solid slab.

Patel, Kachhadia & Shah (2017). aim to reduce the heavy loads or

self-weight of tall buildings replacing the percentage of conventional coarse

aggregate with Styrofoam. Styrofoam not only serves as thermal insulation

but also it can reduce the total self-weight of the structure. Non-destructive

４４
test was performed specifically the Rebound Hammer test at the interval of 7,

21 and 28 days. The 20% replacement for coarse aggregates, the average

compressive strength of the concrete is 20.3 MPa, 31.68 MPa and 38.25 MPa

in 7, 21 and 28 days respectively. For 100% replacement for coarse

aggregates, the average compressive strength of the concrete is 16.4 MPa,

23.52 MPa and 30.5 MPa in 7, 21 and 28 days respectively. The results of the

Rebound hammer test in the cubical specimen at the end of 7, 21 and 28

days were tabulated and results concluded that the target strength of 30 MPa

was successfully achieved even if 100% replacement for natural aggregates

is used.

Lakshmipriya & Pandi (2018). The results of using the bubble deck

method for slab is a reduced quantity of concrete and cement by 30 to 50%

compared with the conventional slab and also gives an important factor that it

reduced the quantity of emitted carbon dioxide. Using bubble deck also can

increase the span length of the slab with a lower cost and reduced material.

The volume of the slab is 8.505 cubic meter and the amount of concrete

replaced by bubbles is 2.6 cubic meters having amount of concrete of 5.905

cubic meters. The concrete volume of the conventional slab is 8.07 cubic

meters. Therefore 27% of concrete replaced, that is 20 pcs bags of Portland

cement saved if class A concrete was used.

Fatma & Chandraka (2018). Differentiated theoretical specification of

flat slabs and bubble deck slabs. According to the results, the conventional

slab having a load of 260 KN, a deflection of 8.70mm and a weight of 321 Kg

comparing it to bubble deck slab having a load of 320KN, deflection of 9.20

mm and a weight of 242 Kg. Results conclude that the load-carrying capability

４５
of the continuous bubble deck slab is high as compare to different slab. It is

mentioned that three cases of bubble deck slabs carry additional freight than

the traditional block. The continual bubble deck block is twenty-third additional

load carrying capability than the conventional slab. Although the deflection of

continuous bubble deck is relatively high than the conventional slab. The

conventional slab is relatively heavier than the continuous bubble deck. The

continuous bubble deck slab has 6% more deflection behavior than the

conventional slab and the continuous bubble deck slab is 33% less weight

than the conventional slab.

Since the Bubble Deck slab has limited formwork, it produces floors

20% faster that minimize the construction costs and of course, minimizes the

use of concrete. Bubble deck helps in designing larger cantilevers and allows

stronger and thicker slabs of concrete having larger areas. The research

states that Bubble Deck was designed to be an effective solution in

decreasing the amount of concrete used in building construction, to optimize

the weight of concrete and to strengthen the overall frame. The test was

conducted by using the technology of Bubble Deck producing a lighter weight

deck for a bridge. The researchers used the knowledge collected during

behavioral analysis to design a modular deck component for pedestrian

bridges that is lighter but has the strength that is similar to the typical

reinforced concrete designs. They used the standard measurement of shear

capacity which ranges from 72-91% for solid deck.

The researchers have concluded that a continuous bubble deck

reduces the volume of concrete to ultimately decrease the self-weight of the

slab. The arrangement of the hollow balls also affects the load-carrying

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capacity of the slab. On the other hand, Bubble Deck also improves the

elastic property of slab when compared to Conventional slab which is 6%

lesser. Thus, they have concluded that the Bubble Deck slab gives better

results when it comes to deflection and weight parameters.

Adel & Omar (2018). It was found out that most reviews do prefer the

use of a voided slabs since it is of convenient use in flooring and roofing since

it accounts to much lesser self-weight of slabs, they find ease in the

construction of the voided system and a lighter system for supporting.

The studies showed that: the deflection of the slab decreases as the

diameters of the void decreases also, test results were found out that the

reduction in percentage of cross sectional areas of the voided slab ranges

from 30 percent to 40 percent, the test results also indicated that the

utilization of rectangular or square solids instead of the circular reduces the

ultimate capacity by 2.8% and 14.7% relative to the voids in circular shape

respectively for the hollow core slabs, the test also proved that the full load

distribution is capable of achieving until the ultimate flexural capacity of the

system, the weight reduction in percentage yields in the range of 19-35%,

when utilizing the minimum shear reinforcement it usually increases the shear

capacity of the voided slabs significantly., it is found out that the decreasing of

shear spans to an effective depth ratios for a aggregates that are lightweight

results to an increase in the cracking strength and ultimate strength so the

mode of failure varies from flexural to a shear flexural.

Wheeler (2018). According to his study, it was proved that the design

of a voided concrete slab is much more effective for long span structures due

to the substantial self-weight reduction of concrete, for spans shorter than 25

４７
feet, it may still be effective but the savings for these concrete sans may not

outweigh the costs associated with flat plate concrete slabs. There are

projects where the concrete voided slab are found significant, as such may

include projects which require a very limited ceiling to ceiling heights and

projects which require large spans but somehow may also found voided

concrete slabs to be insignificant, but still, owners tend to choose the system

of introducing voided concrete slab to their structures to have eco-friendlier

building. A more innovative construction method must be analyzed to

somehow make reductions in the schedule of construction.

Molina, Moreno et al. suggested a voided slab as a new method to

reduce environmental burdens since this type of slab section would use a

lesser concrete and it was also an example of a low-carbon design for three

aspects, such as the structural performance, economic costs, and

environmental impacts. The hollow slab will act like two-way spanning

concrete slab that decreases 35% of the dead load at the same time

increasing the capacity by 100%. The Bubble deck, through tests, models,

and analysis, was proven to be superior to the conventional concrete slabs.

This solved the problem in terms of reducing the weight of the slab, however,

the resistance on shear and punching shear of the concrete slab is

significantly decreased since both factors have a direct relation to the depth of

the concrete.

Kiss & Onet (2008). The difference in ultimate strength of the solid and

voided slab is very little since the voids are placed at the center of the section.

This process is a way of decreasing the weight of the slab while retaining its

ultimate strength.

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 STUDIES REGARDING MIX DESIGN OF STYROFOAM CONCRETE

Ahmad (2018). tried to produce lightweight concrete and used the

recycled Styrofoam as a substitute for coarse aggregate in the mixture of

concrete for structural applications. Using recycled Styrofoam as substitute for

coarse aggregate can lessen the waste in the country. Pulverized fly ash and

small amount of super-plasticizers was added to contribute additional strength

to their mix design. They compared the 28-day strength of pure Styrofoam as

a substitute for coarse aggregate versus few substitutions of Styrofoam in

coarse aggregate. The guideline of their design is the grade M40 design.

They produced five different mixture as a sample for testing. Recycled

Styrofoam of 10mm to 20mm square in size as replacement for crushed

gravel is used but during mixing, Styrofoam cubed reduced about 30% of its

size. The compressive strength of the lightweight concrete ranges to 3.1 to

6.9 MPa as a result of the conducted compressive test. To be able to use the

lightweight concrete in structural application, it must have not less than 17

MPa of compressive strength according to the BS8110. The compressive

strength of the Styrofoam concrete still too far from the target strength of 40

MPa at 28-days. From the results it was concluded that the failure is due to

bond between Styrofoam and concrete.

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