Shotcrete is often the best alternative when repair and restoration are being contemplated and can be the ideal application method for both reinforced and nonreinforced construction. From tanks and pools to chemical and automotive to retaining walls and highway structures, the opportunities are endless.
The shotcrete process has also been used for repair and installation of new linings in industrial melting and firing facilities since 1915. The relining of blast furnaces, ladles, and casting facilities, as well as petroleum and cement producing plants, are some of the applications that employ both wet and dry process shotcreting of specialty, heat-resistant materials. The shotcrete process allows for new installations during downtime and “hot” installation of certain materials as a routine part of the production cycle—another advantage of this unique concrete construction method.
Proper surface preparation allows the shotcrete professional to be able to integrate new materials with in-place construction to form a composite that will stand up to exposure and use. As important as the materials are the coordination of efforts from a properly qualified contractor, materials supplier, engineer, and architect. When all of these pieces are in place, the exceptional benefits of the shotcrete process are realized.