What Is Waste Concrete?
"Sacrificial concrete" refers to concrete poured prior to foundation work. It is generally poured to a thickness of about 5 cm and does not contain reinforcing bars, as it is not required to be strong.
Waste concrete is commonly referred to as “sute-kon” for short. It is also sometimes called “leveling concrete” (leveling-kon), which has the same meaning.
Although test concrete is not used in every construction project, it is an important step for ensuring that subsequent work proceeds smoothly and that the quality of the building is maintained.
The Purpose of Waste Concrete
There are three main purposes for waste concrete. I will explain these purposes in detail.
- Leveling Uneven Ground
- Ensure Accurate Foundation Alignment
- Serves as the reference point for the building's height
Leveling Uneven Ground
The ground at a construction site is naturally uneven and not flat. By pouring a concrete base layer there, we can ensure a level working surface necessary for subsequent foundation work.
Since a level subbase can be ensured using scrap concrete, it is used as a subbase when erecting formwork and reinforcing bars.
Ensure Accurate Foundation Alignment
The building's foundation must be constructed exactly as specified in the blueprints. The level working surface created by the sacrificial concrete,Layout MarkingIt serves as a good base.
The presence of waste concrete makes it possible to accuratelyLayout MarkingNot only does this allow you to do that, but it also provides a flat work surface, which improves work efficiency.
Serves as the reference point for the building's height
The concrete base plays a crucial role as the reference point for the overall height of the building. It also serves as the reference plane for determining the positions when installing formwork and reinforcing bars.
Since this affects the height of the building, construction must be carried out with a focus on horizontal accuracy to prevent any errors.
The Difference Between Waste Concrete and Foundation Concrete
The primary purpose of sacrificial concrete is to serve as a reference point for building height and as a base for layout marking; since strength is not a requirement, it does not contain reinforcing bars. The standard strength for sacrificial concrete is 18 N/mm² or higher.
On the other hand, since the concrete used in the foundation serves as the base that supports the building and must therefore be strong, it always contains reinforcing bars. The strength of typical reinforced concrete is 24 N/mm² or higher.
