(Allied Publishers, 2001)

Introduction

Overview

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• Prestressed concrete is recognised not only as a structural material, but also an ingenious principle and a unique construction technology, making a lasting impression in civil engineering infrastructure of the twentieth century. It is ideally suited for applications involving long and slender spans (bridges, building floor systems and shell structures), crack-free construction (pressure vessels, nuclear containments, water tanks and pipes) and enhanced resistance to fatigue loading (railtrack sleepers, etc.).

  Since its introduction in the early 1930s, prestressed concrete has evolved over the years to meet the challenging demands of increased durability and strength, innovative systems of prestressing, new methods of analysis and design, new applications and construction technologies. There is also an emerging need for structural monitoring of existing and new PSC structures. These issues are of great relevance to India, which is among the first countries in the world, following France, to recognise and explore the potential of prestressed concrete.

  This volume of Conference Proceedings ("Trends in Prestressed Concrete", June 1-2, 2001, IIT Madras) provides a collection of state-of-the-art technical papers that deal with recent developments in prestressed concrete, particularly in India. In addition to discussing current trends, some papers also dwell on the past, and the promise that the future holds. The papers have been authored by leading academicians, professionals and consultants, who are active in prestressed concrete design, construction and research in India. The papers are categorised under the following themes:

  • Materials for Prestressed Concrete
  • Analysis & Design of Prestressed Concrete Structures
  • Prestressing Systems, Experimental Studies & Structural Monitoring
  • Construction Technologies & Case Studies

  In addition to the above, a separate section, comprising seven keynote papers by leading experts is included. These papers provide an excellent overview of the main theme of the Conference, viz., 'Trends in Prestressed Concrete'.