LOWCOST CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS 1（低成本建筑材料1）.pdfVIP

FRITZ ENGINEERING L...,\BOR{;,TORY LIBRARY LOW-COST CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS 1 by 2 H. Y. Fang Since economical factors have influenced the construction industry dramatically in recent years and in many parts of the world steel is scarce and expensive, many researchers are searching for low-cost materials as a substitute or alternative for the present situation. Recently, polymer con- crete has shown promise for future use as a major construction material •. Based on laboratory studies, the strength of polymer concrete is three to four times that of ordinary concrete with very high corrosion resistance and durability. The cost for polymer concrete is about six cents per pound com- pared with 39 cents per pound of steel, and it is particularily suitable for areas with high corrosion problems, such as locations of offshore structures, sewage pipes, pavement in cold regions, railway ties, nuclear power plants, and numerous other possible applications (2). However, the polymer substance is a by-product of oil and may be influenced by the current energy crisis and needs improvement in the techniques for large scale commercial production. Other materials such as sulfur concrete and fiber concrete also can be con- sidered as useful for future construction material. The purpose of this paper is to summarize some highlights of studies on relatively low-cost materials for possible use in low-cost housing in devel- op