Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) has become a game-changing invention in modern construction. It combines the compressive strength of concrete and steel to ensure the best durability and strength.
RCC has been widely used in buildings such as homes and in large infrastructure projects such as bridges and dams. Due to its ability to survive seismic forces, it is an excellent choice in earthquake-prone areas.
In this blog, you will learn about the benefits and applications of RCC, and why it is essential for modern construction.
RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) is a composite material consisting of concrete and steel in a unified form allowing the structure to resist large loads. RCC concrete is made of cement, aggregates, and water which is compressively strong but not tensile.
To overcome this limitation, steel reinforcements are added to carry the required tensile strength to bear stretching forces. The synergy built by combining these materials makes RCC structures robust and flexible.
Each component in an RCC building has a respective role in making the RCC construction sound, safe, and durable. These essential elements are crucial for achieving a robust house design. Below is a detailed explanation of these essential elements:
The ground is the starting point of all RCC structures. A stable base is laid on the site, taking it to a level by compacting the soil, and, in some instances, adding a layer of gravel or sand. At the ground level, the load is evenly distributed and gives a good foundation for any further construction. Preparation at this stage is critical to avoid settlement and potential uneven loads on the structure.
The plinth acts as a barrier between the building and the ground protecting the building from moisture, soil, and termite issues at the same time. It is constructed with RCC or brick masonry, raised with a height of 3 feet above the ground level, and capped with a DPC (damp proof course) to prevent water seepage. The plinth also provides greater stability to the building by spreading the load evenly.
All the visible part of the building is called superstructure, and these are the walls, beams, columns, slabs, and roof. Strength as well as flexibility is given by RCC through its primary construction. Loads generated by occupants, furniture, and environmental forces such as wind and earthquakes are borne by the superstructure. Likewise, the system includes essential systems such as plumbing, electrical wiring, and HVAC.
Substructures are located below the plinth level and they include a foundation to carry the entire load of the building to the soil. The foundations are shallow (isolated or strip footings) or deep (pile or raft foundations) depending upon soil conditions and load requirements. Settlement loading, lateral loading, and groundwater effects should be resisted by the substructure.
The layer of waterproof material, like bitumen or plastic sheets, in this case, known as a horizontal layer or horizontal waterproof layer is called DPC. This layer will provide damp protection which helps to save the structure from dampness that can otherwise affect the structure and under which problems like mold, peeling paint, and corrosion may arise in the embedded reinforcements.
RCC buildings have windows and doors that are critical in bringing natural light, ventilation, and access. Within the structure, these openings are framed and strengthened to remain stable and avoid cracking. Windows and doors are often made using modern construction with soundproof and energy-efficient materials for function and comfort.
The floors in the building rest on concrete flooring which acts as a structural base for construction. Designed to carry static and dynamic loads (like furniture, machinery, human traffic). Flooring is often reinforced in the concrete mix used to harden. The properly finished floor increases the workability and aesthetic appeal of a given area.
The uppermost layer of the concrete floor is applied to achieve a smooth and durable satin-like surface. They are common finishes such as tiles, marble, polished concrete, and epoxy coatings. Apart from aesthetics, the finish has a functional advantage by helping with slip resistance and ease of maintenance.
Basements are created in the ground below the ground level and used for extra storage, parking, or living. Basements are walls and floors are made of RCC to withstand lateral pressures generated by surrounding ground and the groundwater. A waterproof and drainage system that is effective provides the protection of basement structures.
Walls, partitions, and facades are constructed by a combination of brick masonry and RCC. Bricks are insulated, make for a good aesthetic appeal, and reduce the total weight of the structure. They are made bigger and further reinforced for stability and sustainable building practices in modern construction.
Quality and integration of core components are determinants for the effectiveness and resilience of RCC structures. Each components have a different functions in holding the structure's strength, durability, and overall performance.
The materials used in rcc construction are:
Cement performs as a binding material in RCC as it holds all the components of cement concrete
Types:
The bulk of the concrete mix is aggregates that give better stability to concrete and also minimize the probability of shrinkage upon curing.
Types:
RCC depends critically on water to achieve hydration of the cement to form a solid and durable matrix.
Quality:
Without steel reinforcements, RCC cannot provide tensile strength.
Types:
Additives, or admixtures, are those materials added to concrete to improve or alter its properties depending on the use (Adverse effects seen could be due to improper handling or incorrect mixture design).
Types:
RCC has become the basis of modern residential building design due to its structural and aesthetic capabilities. RCC helps in the construction of buildings ranging from small houses to multi-stories, large spans to curved designs, which was difficult to do with traditional materials.
However, these structural advantages perform a more functional role helping to improve the durability and safety of buildings by providing resistance to fire, weathering, and dynamic forces.
RCC has the adaptability to take various forms and finishes, which makes it an indispensable solution in building sustainable and energy-efficient buildings that meet the prevailing architectural demand.
In order to get the maximum lifespan and durability from RCC buildings, we need to pay attention to the materials, construction practices, and maintenance.
Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) is the basis of today’s modern construction, the method by which structures are made to be resilient, hard-wearing, and visually appealing. RCC has the best reliability combined with unmatched flexibility from the compressive strength of concrete and the tensile strength of steel.
Knowledge of the key components, the right construction techniques, and proper maintenance practices will ensure the longevity of RCC buildings. RCC is a versatile solution that continues to meet demands for architecture and sustainability as they evolve.
To help to create a stronger and innovative RCC building you can get expert consultations from trusted builders like Jadan Construction Group.