Broken Concrete as Fill versus Soil

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of broken concrete versus soil as fill for raising the ground floor of a building. Both options require compaction, which can be done with a large roller machine or smaller units. It is important to consider whether the fill will be under the slab or foundation, as compacting well is crucial to avoid settling.
  • #1
rodsika
279
2
Hi,

Supposed the ground floor of a building needs to be raised 2 feet higher with respect to street level. How good is using broken concrete as fill versus putting soil? I heard one needs to compact the broken concrete. What do they exactly do when they compact it? Would the overall cost be the same as just putting soil? Which one is better?
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
Either works as fill. Both need to be compacted. They do that with a big roller machine that vibrates.
 
  • #3
you can rent smaller lawn-mower sized compacting units as well.

are you pouring your slab or foundation on top of this or is this the ground around the building?

if it's just the ground, you are doing a dis-service by adding in hard to shovel concrete.
Future gardeners will curse you LOL

if it's under the slab or foundation, compact it very well to avoid settling.
 

1. What are the benefits of using broken concrete as fill instead of soil?

Broken concrete can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for fill material. It is often readily available, and using it as fill can reduce the amount of waste entering landfills. Additionally, concrete has high compressive strength, making it a durable option for fill material.

2. Can broken concrete be used as fill in all types of soil?

While broken concrete can be used as fill in many soil types, it is important to consider the specific properties of the soil and the concrete. For example, if the soil has poor drainage, using broken concrete as fill could exacerbate drainage issues. It is always best to consult with a geotechnical engineer to determine the suitability of using broken concrete as fill in a specific soil type.

3. How should broken concrete be prepared for use as fill?

Before using broken concrete as fill, it should be cleaned of any debris, such as rebar or wire mesh, and any large pieces should be broken down into smaller, more manageable sizes. It is also important to ensure that the concrete is free of any hazardous materials, such as lead-based paint or asbestos, before using it as fill.

4. Are there any potential drawbacks to using broken concrete as fill?

One potential drawback of using broken concrete as fill is that it may not provide adequate support for heavy structures or loads. In these cases, it may be necessary to use a different type of fill material, such as compacted soil or gravel. Additionally, if the concrete is not properly prepared or the soil conditions are not suitable, it may lead to settlement or other issues.

5. Is there a limit to the amount of broken concrete that can be used as fill on a site?

The amount of broken concrete that can be used as fill on a site will depend on various factors, such as the size and condition of the concrete, the soil type, and the intended use of the filled area. It is important to consult with a geotechnical engineer to determine the appropriate amount of broken concrete that can be used as fill for a specific site.

Similar threads

Modeling reaction forces on a foundation for fences
    • General Engineering
Replies
9
Views
4K
12m span of concrete roof slab
    • General Engineering
Replies
1
Views
9K
Underground pump vault airflow considerations
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
15
Views
821
What kind of wood should I use for a platform that holds 200 lbs
    • General Engineering
Replies
4
Views
4K
Air vs water as insulation for my cold frame
    • Mechanics
Replies
3
Views
7K
Building a rooftop for workshop
    • General Engineering
Replies
2
Views
1K
Fukushima The geological issues of the Fukushima Daiichi
    • Nuclear Engineering
Replies
4
Views
11K
Constructing an underground cave
    • Sci-Fi Writing and World Building
Replies
4
Views
2K
Solar energy storage systems
    • General Engineering
Replies
14
Views
2K
How would you improve this anti-efficient gas system?
    • General Engineering
Replies
14
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top