Evaluating the Performance of Hollow Core Slabs (HCS)-Concrete and Simplifying Their Implementation

Abstract

The largest proportion of the material used in multistory buildings, and thus its carbon impact, is attributed to their slabs being the main contributor of weight. Because of their high strength and concrete self-weight reduction, composite beams with hollow-core slabs were created for their technical and economic benefits, making this system inexpensive and with a reduced environmental impact, thereby lowering carbon emissions. Geometrically, the hollow slab has a sequence of T and L form pieces on both sides. Hollow slabs are a newer roof feature with a little study undertaken in mechanical characteristics that prove its benefits and downsides in construction. It also has sufficient rigidity. In this work, numerous 19 hollow slabs and flat slabs are modeled using the finite element method, and the findings are compared in terms of hollow slab behavior and economic cost. It demonstrates that reducing the concrete beneath the hollow slab promotes cost-efficiency and the effective use of concrete and steel resources and various approaches for this form of the hollow slab are provided. Implementing a modern double-side beam slab is possible using the presented methods in this paper. It opens a door for creating structures with high stiffness and strength versus vertical and lateral load, along with low material volume.