Comparative cost analysis of reinforced concrete slabs

Abstract

This dissertation is about the comparative cost analysis of a sample of slabs which are in common use within the construction industry on the Maltese islands. The slabs under consideration are; the two-way beam and slab, flat slab and hollow core slabs. Such slabs have been compared to a new slab system which has been introduced fairly recently locally, that being the Bubble Deck® slab. The purpose of this study was to be able to test the properties of the material costs of each slab whilst being subject to a number of variables. This was done by changing the bay size and loading conditions subjected to each slab. A critical review of the literature is structured under four chapters: (1) Introduction (2) Concise slab theory and application (3) Bubble Deck® (4) Benefits of Concrete and Items which may affect cost. Thirty seven factors were extracted from the above headings and were assessed. The analysis indicated a common trend between the various slabs when subjected to the variables. The results obtained from the research conducted in this dissertation have indicated that the least expensive slab is the hollow core slab, followed by the flat slab, Bubble Deck® slab then the two-way beam and slab.