An Overview: What Is Shotcrete?

A concrete contractor has to consider a lot of variables before choosing the concrete application method for a construction project.

Factors such as the cost, durability, reliability, resistance, and ease of use all contribute to choosing the concrete application method.

One of the most difficult decisions a concrete contractor has to make is deciding which concrete application method he/she will use on a construction project. This decision is made by keeping in mind the construction project and its needs.

Only a certified and professional concrete contractor will be able to judge the whole construction project correctly and will be able to choose a concrete application method that is best for the construction project.

Read Out: Methods To Measure The Strength Of Concrete

There are many methods to apply concrete in a construction project, and no method is better than the other.

But a professional concrete contractor will have to evaluate the pros and cons of all the methods in order to select the best option that will suit an individual's construction project’s needs.

Shotcrete is one of the most commonly used concrete application methods that is now used by many concrete contractors.

In this article, we will give you an overview of shotcrete that will help you to evaluate its pros and cons and will help you better understand the whole process.

What Is Shotcrete?

Spraying concrete onto a surface pneumatically at a very high velocity is called shotcrete. As the name itself implies, shooting concrete onto the construction surface is shotcrete.

When the concrete particles are sprayed on the surface, the particles get compacted into the receiving surface during the concrete application process to create a strong and uniform layer.

It is one of the most cost-effective and sustainable methods of applying concrete. There are two types of shotcrete mixture, one is dry-mix, and the other is wet-mix.

Dry-Mix

The difference between the both is that in dry-mix, the dry ingredients are used, and water is mixed in the hose simultaneously while applying.
Advantages of Dry-Mix

In dry-mix, the control of material can be done on-site.

The nozzle operator is able to move the spray hose horizontally and vertically easily.

It is easy to start, shut, and clean.

Wet-Mix

Whereas in wet-mix, the ingredients are combined and mixed before being placed in the spraying hose.
Advantages Of Wet-Mix

This process of applying concrete is cost-effective.

You can apply concrete in areas that are hard to reach with ease.

No prior framework is required

Both of these methods are effective and can be applied overhead, vertically, remote control, and by hand.
Pros Of Using Shotcrete

Here are some of the advantages of using shotcrete concrete as a process of applying concrete in construction projects.

Versatility

This method is very versatile as it is used for reinforcing lining and excavation inside the mines, subways, tunnels, skate parks, theme parks, and retaining walls.

Other processes have limitations such as size, shape, style, and depth, but all these drawbacks do not exist in this method.

The shotcrete method is also used for architectural projects as it ensures longevity, durability, and strength.

This method of applying concrete is also very popular for forming pools, faux finishes, and constructing high-rise facades.

This is the only method that offers so much and provides the concrete contractors with a bunch of options because of its versatility.

Density

One of the most important benefits of using shotcrete is that it is durable. If the shotcrete is employed properly by professional concrete contractors, then it will be durable and compact.

The high velocity with which the concrete mixture is sprayed on the surface sprays the particles deeply into every corner of the surface.

Since it reaches all the nooks and crannies, it results in a mass that is typically more long-lasting and durable than other concrete application methods.

Resistance

The shotcrete mixture is very resistant, and typically the wet-mix shotcrete has a lower permeability and is more resistant to environmental factors such as fire, worms, and mold.

The shotcrete mixture coating is also very constant, and there are fewer chances of it getting damaged by colder climates.

And the wet-mix concrete shows high resistance to thawing after freezing temperatures start to rise.

Cons Of Using Shotcrete

Like every other process, there are also some drawbacks to using the shotcrete method. Here are some of the cons of shotcrete.

Application

It is very important that the application of shotcrete is made quickly. In order to get effective results, the concrete contractor needs to apply shotcrete as quickly as possible.

Because if the mixture is not utilized quickly, then it will start to dry, and the mixture will become a hard substance that will make it difficult to spray.

This will waste the mixture and will increase the cost for additional mixture, time spent on a project and can also cause potential damage on the construction site.

Hence only hire professional and skilled shotcrete workers
as they will have the experience and knowledge to perfectly apply shotcrete.

The Standard Application Of Shotcrete

Here are some of the standard applications of the shotcrete method.

Sewers

Bridge restoration

Tanks

Dams

Foundations

Mining

Domes

Marine structures

Tunneling

Ground stabilization

Architectural landscaping