A universal UHPC shell element for consideration of future building with precast elements

Abstract

<p>This article describes a technology of UHPC-precast elements (Ultra High Performance Concrete) from the idea to the concrete implementation and shows different possible applications. The development steps of the precast elements relate on the one hand the manufacturing up to the series product and on the other hand the joining technique of the elements. UHPC-prefabricated parts are joined using steel components. The bolted and/or tightened connections of the elements implement a later disassembly and thus a very sustainable use of UHPC- components in the sense of urban mining. The applications concern some examples of architectural objects where the first experiences with the production of UHPC-precast elements were made and which are shown in this article as an example. In the future UHPC-precast elements will play an important role in the field of civil engineering. A concrete prototype will be described and further developments will be shown. In civil engineering, in addition to the aspect of durability, the aesthetics, that results from the construction, play an essential role. It is therefore essential for the planning process of civil engineering structures to consider nature, ethics and aesthetics as equal value properties. The applications of UHPC- precast elements for building constructions are currently limited due to lower durability requirements. However ways are shown that allow meaningful applications. An economic application is given only when considering the overall life cycle. The aesthetics resulting from material-appropriate planning plays an essential role. In the future the consideration of good design will lead to creative construction products such as a universal shell element, which meets all the requirements of sustainable constructions.</p>