ISSN: 2265-6294

Ferrocement Structural Components Molded from Ordinary PVC Pipes: Tests for Low-Cost Housing Use

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Vera Karla S. Caingles,Jose Lorenzo D. Bucton,Nestor E. Ybanez,Joel M. Jaos

Abstract

The integration of ferrocement as structural element in a building is one of the breakthrough studies that promotes sustainability and environmental protection. Several studies have been conducted and applied globally yet has not been fully developed in the Philippines. This project intends to first, evaluate maximum compressive stress and maximum bending stress capacity; and second, evaluate cost-effectiveness of the material and manufacturing process for hollow-cored columns and beams made with ferrocement. A total of 4-set of 4m hollow-core ferrocement samples with varying cross-sections, and another 4-set of 0.3m were designed and prepared for the flexural and compressive strength tests, respectively. Commercially available 3-inc uPVC pipes were used as an inner form to support the wire mesh and mortar cement. The house is now designed with 36 single pipe cross-section of various heights and 23 double pipe cross-sections acting as columns. Most of the double pipe cross-section were installed as columns hidden in the firewall. This is to follow the National Building Code Provisions of having firewalls not less than 150mm in thickness for fire and heat resistivity. The total bill of materials for the designed house is calculated to be at 391,000.00 pesos. Under the current administration, the total cost of the unit would still fall below the new costing rules for the National Housing Administration. In essence, it can be concluded that a ferrocement house can be created using modular members which can carry the loads safely and is cost efficient. It recommended to seek for a different mold and manufacturing technique which can reduce the time to create the structural elements to further reduce total cost.

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