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GeneralInnovative Synthetic Fibers

Jean-Francois Trottier and Michael Mahoney

After four years of research and development on improving the bonding capabilities of synthetic fibers, we recently patented a high-tensile-strength synthetic fiber that partially fibrillates upon mixing and shooting, increasing its final surface area and bonding capabilities to the concrete.1 The fibers are introduced into

GeneralWaterproofing Your Shotcrete Tank

Kevin Yuers

When it comes to preventing water damage and preserving the integrity of concrete structures, waterproofi ng is essential. In of concrete tanks, however, effective, reliable waterproofi ng is especially critical. Concrete tanks play a vital role in many communities. They function as drinking water containers,

GeneralHigh Cost of Steel Not the Only Reason for Using Fibers as Shotcrete Reinforcement

Robert C. Zellers

The rising cost of conventional steel reinforcement has dramatically increased the demand for synthetic, as well as steel, fibers as an alternative to wire mesh in shotcrete applications. More importantly, with the shift to the shotcrete industry is discovering that reinforcement yields significant economic advantages,

SafetyGeneralPump Safety Tips: Protecting Pump Operators and Ready Mix Truck Drivers

Chris Zynda

Here is an important safety tip: Reducers and pumping lines should be directed away from the operator, whenever pumping conditions allow. This means reverse the 90-degree reducers and run the pumping system away from the pump operator and the ready-mix truck driver (refer to Fig.

GeneralU.S. Shotcrete Standards Update

Peter C. Tatnall

This is an attempt to keep you informed about the activities of various organizations and committees developing standards and recommendations related to the shotcrete industry. Readers are invited to provide supplemental information related to the initiatives of ACI, ASTM International, or any other organization active

GeneralMatching Equipment to Process: The Predampener

David Jamieson

As one who promotes choosing process before product, I believe that the success of any project also depends on matching the appropriate equipment to the process/product chosen. Specialty equipment offers several opportunities to achieve effective results. This article will discuss the predampener, a machine used

GeneralACI Shotcrete Certification: Our Aim is True

John W. Nehasil

SafetyGeneralPump Safety – The Forgotten Screen

Chris Zynda

It seems like every time we take delivery of a new pump, everybody wants to climb all over it. They love to check out all controls and features, comparing them to the equipment they have been using.

GeneralShotcrete Construction Joints

Dr. Rusty Morgan

Shotcrete construction joints are required in situations such as the following. When the volume of shotcrete is greater than that which can be conveniently applied and finished in a single shift. In the construction of top-down shotcrete installations, such as soil-nailed walls, where the element

SafetyGeneralShotcrete Pump

Chris Zynda

The shotcrete pump. Every shotcrete crew needs one. Unfor-tunately, the pump that pushes all the material we need to do our job gets more abuse than any of the other equipment. Pumps come in various sizes and shapes, anywhere from a trailer single axle to