Plum Concrete : Definition, Uses and Advantages
Massive boulders, larger than 150 mm in diameter, are mixed with wet concrete up to 30% of the total volume in mass concrete foundations. This is the case with plum concrete, which is cost-effective and energy-efficient.
Concrete must be poured into a thick layer of well-shaped and scrubbed wet concrete, followed by the placing of angular rock pieces not to exceed 60% of the thickness of the layer, at a distance of at least 1.5 times the largest aggregate size in the concrete.
Purpose of Plum Concrete
Under the foundation and footings, the required surface level is achieved using plum concrete. PCC with a large thickness can be less expensive if it is rolled thin.
Gravity dams, barrier walls, sloping sides, and gravity slopes are all examples of mass concreting use. As an example, when it comes to residential construction, the slope underneath the footing is too steep, thus plum concrete must be used.
Process of Plum Concrete
Transportation
Laborers can easily lift the boulders, which are not too big or too small, but are boulders the size of about 300 mm.
Leveling & Cleaning
Cleaning and leveling the surface is the very first step in the process, as soft soil can lead to a low bearing capacity. The surface is sprayed with water after clearing and grubbing to allow it to become moist before plum concrete is laid.
Sprinkled water ensures plum concrete is properly bonded to the ground. An anti-termite compound is sprayed on top of plain water to ensure a solid foundation.