The Masterbuilder - October 2012 - Geotech Special

Cover
Pidilite Industries Ltd (Dr.Fixit)
Palfinger Cranes India Pvt.Ltd
Metecno India Pvt.Ltd
Loya Constructions Pvt.Ltd
Techny Chemy
Marini India Pvt Ltd (Fayat India)
EDITOR'S COMMENT
Your feedbacks are welcome and should be sent to: The Editor, The Masterbuilder, 102/11 (New No. 46/11), Tripti Apartments, Marshalls Road, Egmore, Chennai, India. Phone: +91 44 28555248 Telefax: +91 44 28586703
Editor-in-Chief K.P . Pradeep editor@masterbuilder.co.in Vice-Chairman K G K Moorthy moorthykgk@yahoo.co.in Director Editorial, Construction Chemicals Dr. Y P Kapoor Editor-in-Charge Ravi Damodaran Editor Nigel Narayan Associate Editors M.J. Krishna, M.K. Prabhakar, Sonjay Deb Head - Content Development CE, Infrastructure & Environment Sadagopan Seshadri Contributors Bhavani Balakrishna, Priya, Chaitanya Raj Goyal Vice President Marketing H. Usha Devi Head-New Media Initiative Pradeep Nair News Desk B. Sathya Venkatesh Credit Controller G.B. Muralidharan Finance R. Prema Manager Digital Production K. Sravanthi Kiran Manager Digital Media Lakshmi Creative Head S. Nithiyanandam Production Manager Caroline D'sylva Digital Production Assistant R. Anand, Sudhir Kumar Singh Subscription & Circulation Team Sateesh Kuniyil, S. Sasi Corporate Office MB Publishers Pvt. Limited 102/11 (New No. 46/11), Tripti Apartments, Marshalls Road, Egmore, Chennai - 600 008. Ph: 044-28555248 Telefax: 28586703. Subscription & Circulation subscription@masterbuilder.in Website www.masterbuilder.co.in Karnataka No.40, 2nd Floor, 7th "C" Cross, Ashwini Layout, Koramangala, Bangalore - 560047. Phone: 080 - 25701079 / 25705888 Mobile: 09343833191 Owned and Published by K.P . Pradeep 102/11 (New No. 46/11), Tripti Apartments, Marshalls Road, Egmore, Chennai - 600 008. Printed By Ashok Natarajan Times Printers & Publishers, New No. 57 (29), Dr. Besant Road, Ice House, Chennai - 600 014. Disclaimer All rights reserved. Reproduction, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, in whole or part without prior written permission is prohibited. All views expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher, neither do the publishers endorse any of the claims made in the advertisements.
NIB: The Super Arbitrator

he NIB (National Investment Board) proposed under the governance of the finance minister seems to have rekindled enthusiasm amongst the domestic and foreign investors. The Board is looked up to assume the role of a super arbitrator and expedite clearances for major infrastructure projects. According to finance minister P . Chidambaram, the NIB is aimed at eliminating red-tapeism (Read as: innovative variant of corruption prevalent in India) and to control the discretionary powers of ministries that have over the years become infamous for their refusals to clear mega infrastructure projects. It would be right to highlight here that close to 19 ministries are involved in clearance of a typical infrastructure project and collectively are responsible for delay in execution of projects approximately worth Rs 2 trillion in roads, power, coal and mining sectors as on date. In an atmosphere of this intensity, the NIB seems like the trump card. If the FM has his way then the NIB will be an empowered standing committee of the cabinet under the chairmanship of the prime minister with other key members including finance and law & justice ministers. The board will be supported by a team of senior bureaucrats who will be responsible for identifying key projects that require continual monitoring. The initial focus will be on investments over Rs.1000 crore in roads, mining, power, petroleum and natural gas, ports and railway projects. All sanctions regarding various projects will be the sole discretion of the proposed NIB whose decision in the matter would be final and binding with no scope for any interference from other ministries. One casual look at the number of infrastructure projects awaiting clearance from central ministries ranging from environment to defence gives a clear indication why the finance minister is in a tearing hurry to put in place the National Investment Board (NIB). Having said that, it remains to be seen if the finance minister can convince the top brass of UPA to depart from the time tested Westminster style of functioning wherein it is mandatory to get the concurrence from all the concerned ministries prior to the clearance of any project. Once the NIB gets the required approval, there is bound to be a dramatic change in the ground rules of governance in this country. In effect, all ministries will operate as support system for the finance ministry that too in a time bound and by-the-book manner. Governance will effectively rest with the prime minister aided by the finance minister and the minister for law and justice. This will ensure that no specific ministry can hope to use (or call it misuse!) the powers vested on them and prevent a particular project of national importance from taking shape. Despite this if a particular ministry delays an approval; the NIB will be vested with the power to take charge and look into granting permission for the project to take off. This centralised approach of work also implied that the individual ministers will be held responsible for any delays, accountable for the projects, with no scope for any pass-the-buck game. Furthermore, since the clearance for projects also mean a corresponding change of policy, the Indian finance ministry's job looks all the more functional and dynamic. It is with only with such far reaching policy decisions coupled with transparency and accountability in the respective departments can there be an investment scenario that is truly feasible in the Indian context. The current edition of The Masterbuilder covers some enriching research papers, features and reports on geosynthetics, waterproofing, sustainability and robotics in construction that is bound to be of interest to you. We look forward to knowing your views on our efforts, as in the past.
K.P . Pradeep, Editor-in-Chief

editor@masterbuilder.co.in
Gandhi Automations Pvt.Ltd
Contents
Geosynthetics: Industry Analysis

M.K. Prabhakar, Associate Editor
Environmental Security & Economics to Drive New Phase in India's Demand for Geosynthetics
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Editor's Comment........................8 Advertisers Index.......................18 Classification Index....................20 News & Events............................22 Escape.......................................239
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Aravind Krishna Swamy, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi. Animesh Das, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur.
Sustainability: Road Construction Possible Use of Some Waste Materials in Road Construction
Puvvadi V. Sivapullaiah1, Vandana Sreedharan2 Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 2 Research scholar, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
Organically Modified Bentonite as a Part of Geosynthetic Clay Liner System
50 66 72 84 92 108
Urban Housing City's Sustainability Paradigm: 'Housing for All'

Sadogopan Seshadri, Cheif - Content Development, CE - Infrastructure - Environment
136 146 154 159 166 174
Face to Face Interaction: Tiru Kulkarni, VP, Geosynthetics Division, Garware Wall Ropes Ltd.
Realty: FDI Impact FDI in Multi-Brand Retail: Revived Optimism in Retail Real Estate
Bhavani Balakrishna
Marcus Jablonka, Cosella-Drken, Heinz Peter Raidt, Drken GmbH
Waterproofing Case Study: Long Term Performance of HDPE Drainboards in the Gotthard Railway Tunnels
Robotics Rise of the Machine: Robots Show Promise to Take Over High-rise Construction
Chaitanya Raj Goyal
Jason Smith M.S., Chemistry (Polymers and Coatings), Sr. Research & Development Chemist, The Garland Company Inc, Cleveland, OH
Roofing: Moisture Control Catching the Polyurethane Train
Geosynthetics Geosynthetic Opportunities Associated with Energy Production and Transmission

Bob and George Koerner, Geosynthetic Institute
Advertorial Bitumode Excels in Different Horizons Energy Efficiency New Technical Solutions for Energy Efficient Buildings
Sonjoy Deb, B.Tech,'Civil' Associate Editor
Durability and Long-Term Performance of High Density Polyethylene Geomembranes
D N Arnepalli1 and A A Rejoice2 1 Assistant Professor, 2Research Scholar, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai
Geogrid Reinforced Basal Foundation for Soft Soil Stabilisation
Green Cement The 'Carbon Negative' Cement Technology

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Enviro Geosynthetics Pvt.Ltd
Contents
180 186 198 230 236 237 60 80
Solar: Off-Grid Application 'Switching - Solar': Challenges and Opportunities in Off-Grid Solar application
Chaitanya Raj Goyal
162 Green Buildings - Thermal Insulation

Thermal Insulation of Buildings Conserve Energy, 163 Save Environment - High Performance Panels for Wall Cladding and 194 Balithe Roofing in Highly Corrosive Environments Tekla Structures: Powerful Tool for Designing 195 Pre Engineering Buildings Roofing Solutions for 204 Groundbreaking Heat Insulation and Waterproofing Solution to Prevent Dampness 208 Eco-Friendly and Preserve Natural Stones Section Rapid Roll-Up Doors with 212 Interchangeable Counterweights from Gandhi Automation
European Asphalt Pavement Association
Sustainability: Warm Mix Asphalt The Use of Warm Mix Asphalt
Waterproofing Waterproofing the Building Envelope
Advances in Waterproofing Materials & Technology
Sunil Mahajan, Director, Construction Industry Development Council
Workforce: Training On the Job Training: Increasing Acceptability by Industry
Infrastructure Need People with Commitment

M J Krishna, Associate Editor
216 LiuGong CLG920D Hydraulic Excavator 218 BAU 2013 220 Innovative and Practical Mineral Technologies from Wirtgen 224 Ahuja Towers: A New Landmark in the Making 226 Nafuclar: Surface Retarder for Exposed Aggregates Finishes 228 Automatic Rebar Cutter cutPRO32 239 Interaction BC India 2012: 'Right Place, Right Time'
Communication Feature Tyre Protector: Revolutionary Tyre Sealants Now in India!
K-FIX: From Chembond Chemicals Ltd.
138 A Comprehensive Geosynthetics Solution Provider 144 Concept & Application of Geocomposites 160 Crafting Relationships Since 1960!
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H & K Rolling Mill Engineers Pvt.Ltd
Contents
Advertisers Index
A
A.S.A. Engineering Enterprises Pvt.Ltd Action Construction Equipment Ltd Apollo Infratech Pvt.Ltd Aquarius Technologies Pvt.Ltd Asons Enterprise Atul Fasteners Ltd BASF India Ltd BC India - Bauma Conexpo Show Bitumode International Pvt Ltd BMTPC - Appropriate Building Materials BMTPC - Emerging Technologies for Mass Housing Buildmat-2013 Case New Holland Construction Equipment (India) Pvt.Ltd Caterpillar India Cera Chem Pvt Ltd Chembond Chemicals Ltd Climax Geosynthetics Pvt.Ltd Consolidated Machines CTM Geosyntetics Doka India Pvt. Ltd Dow Corning India Pvt.Ltd Enviro Geosynthetics Pvt.Ltd Esquire - CMAC Pvt.Ltd Forensic Geotechnical Engineering 127 135 49 / 55 53 125 145 H & K Rolling Mill Engineers Pvt.Ltd Happenstance Engineering Pvt.Ltd Igloo Tiles Gorantala Geosynthetics Pvt.Ltd Gourav Industries Green Build Products (I) Pvt.Ltd 189 185 177 Pennar Engineered Building Systems Ltd Pidilite Industries Ltd (Dr.Fixit) Poly Flex R & M International Rapid Transit India -2012 Reliance Industries Ltd Relyon Facility Services Roljack Industries 101 19 Front Inner - 1
H
17 107
R
Back Inner 221 169 193 165
B
79 215 149 219 197 229
I
75 Implementation Challenges & Way forward for Construction & Infrastructure Sector during 12th Five Year plan (2012 - 17) 202 / 203 Innovations in Green Buildings (The Griha Approach) International Conference of Suppliers to Construction Chemical Industry (CCMA) Instruct JBA Concrete Solutions Jeevan Products JK Cement Ltd Kumkang Kind Co.Ltd Lipi Polymers Pvt.Ltd Liugong India Pvt.Ltd Loya Constructions Pvt.Ltd Maco Coporation India Pvt.Ltd Maharshree Geomembrane (India) Pvt.Ltd Marini India Pvt Ltd (Fayat India) MC Bauchemie India Pvt.Ltd Metecno India Pvt.Ltd MMI India Pvt.Ltd Multicolor Steels (India) Pvt. Ltd Nina Concrete Systems Pvt.Ltd Palfinger Cranes India Pvt.Ltd 211 207 223
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Safari Construction Equipments Pvt.Ltd Schwing Stetter (India) Pvt. Ltd Sika India Pvt.Ltd STP Ltd Supreme Petrochem Ltd Tashi India Ltd Techny Chemy Tekla India Pvt.Ltd Texsa India Ltd The Masterbuilder Subscription Form The Supreme Industries Ltd Toshniwal Systems & Instruments Pvt.ltd Tyre Protector (India) Pvt.Ltd UBM Media (Precast India 2012) Ultratech Cement Ltd Unisteel Engineering Works United Steel & Structurals Pvt. Ltd Universal Construction Machinery Equipment Ltd Venus Equipment & Tools Pvt.Ltd Vibrant Future Cities - 2013 Volvo India Ltd Western Outdoor Structures Pvt Ltd Wirtgen India Ltd Zamil Steel Buildings (I) Pvt.Ltd 47 37 71 153 119
C
33 29 77 240 191 193 89
T
25 6 57 39 233 41 173 61
J
99 179 21
K
140 / 141
L
91 35 5
U
205 Back Cover 115 113 111/131
D
23 69
E
11 161
M
191 183 7 65 Front Inner - 2 177 156 / 157
V
179 / 183 / 185 / 189 209 27
F
227 Fourth International Congress on Computational Mechanics & Simulation 213
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Gandhi Automations Pvt.Ltd Garware Wall Ropes Ltd Gayatri Polymers & Geosynthetics Geosys India Infrastructures Pvt.Ltd 9 87 193 81
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105
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95 31
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2nd Wrapper
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121
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The Masterbuilder - October 2012 www.masterbuilder.co.in
Poly Flex
Contents
Advertisers Index / Classification

Aerial Boom Lifts Maco Corporation (INDIA) Pvt. Ltd. 191 Roljack Industries 165 Unisteel Engineering Works 115 Universal Construction Machinery & Equipment Ltd. 111/131 Volvo India Pvt. Ltd. 27 Cranes Action Construction Equipment Ltd 135 Esquire CMAC Pvt. Ltd. 161 Palfinger Cranes India Pvt Ltd 2nd Wrapper Safari Construction Equipments Pvt. Ltd. 47 Doors-Automatic Gandhi Automations Pvt. Ltd Events & Exhibitions BC India - Bauma Conexpo Show Buildmat-2013 Vibrant Future Cities - 2013 Fibre Reinforced Concrete Nina Concrete Systems Pvt. Ltd. Tashi Reinforcements LLP Flooring JBA Concrete Solution Nina Concrete Systems Pvt. Ltd. Tashi Reinforcements LLP Formwork Doka India Pvt. Ltd Kumkang kind india Geosynthetics Climax synthetics CTM Geo Synthetics Enviro Geosynthetics Pvt. Ltd. Garware-Wall Ropes Ltd Gayatri Polymers & Geosynthetics Geosys India Infrastructures Pvt Ltd Gorantla Geosynthetics Pvt Ltd Lipi Polymer Pvt Ltd 9 215 229 209 105 25 99 105 25 23 140 / 141 191 89 11 87 193 81 189 91 Material Handling Equipments Palfinger Cranes India Pvt Ltd 2nd Wrapper PEB Loya Pre Engineered Buildings Pvt. Ltd 5 Metecno India Pvt. Ltd. Front Inner - 2 Multicolor Steels India Pvt. Ltd. 156 / 157 Pennar Engineered Building Systems Ltd 101 United Steel & Structurals Pvt. Ltd. 113 Zamil Steel Buildings India Pvt Ltd 121 Roofing Fastners Atul Fastners Ltd. Asons Enterprise Software Tekla Potential Tensile Membrane Western Outdoors Structures Pvt. Ltd Thermal Insulation The Supreme Industries Ltd. | Protective Packaging Division (PPD) Tiles Igloo Tiles 145 125 57 95
Concrete Machinery & Equipment Apollo Hawkeye Pedershaab Concrete Technologies Pvt. Ltd. 55 Apollo infratech Private Limited 49 Schwing Stetter (INDIA) Pvt. Ltd. 37 Toshniwal Systems & Instruments Pvt. Ltd.173 Venus Equipment and Tools Pvt. Ltd. 179 / 183 / 185 / 189 Conferences BMTPC - Appropriate Building Materials 219 BMTPC - Emerging Technologies for Mass Housing 197 Forensic Geotechnical Engineering 227 Fourth International Congress on Computational Mechanics & Simulation 213 Implementation Challenges & Way forward for Construction & Infrastructure Sector during 12th Five Year plan (2012 - 17) 202 / 203 Innovations in Green Buildings (The Griha Approach) 211 International Conference of Suppliers to Construction Chemical Industry (CCMA) 207 Rapid Transit India -2012 221 UBM Media (Precast India 2012) 205 Construction chemicals Basf india Limited 79 Cera-Chem Private Limited 77 Chembond Chemicals Limited 240 Dr.Fixit Front Inner - 1 Sika India Pvt. Ltd. 71 Construction Machinery & Equipment Aquarius Technologies Private Limited 53 Case New Holland Construction Equipments (India) Pvt.Ltd. 33 Caterpillar India Pvt Ltd 29 Consolidated Machines 193 Happenstance Engineering Pvt. Ltd. 107 Liugong India Pvt Ltd 35 Marini India 7
41 75
Tmt-Technology Suppliers H & K Rolling Mills Engineering Pvt. Ltd. 17 Tyre Safeguard Tyre Protector (india) Pvt. Ltd. Wall Putty JK WallPutty UltraTech Cement Ltd. 61 21 Back cover 39 79 149 77 240 65 105 169 71 153 41
Green Products BASF india Limited 79 Dow Corning India Pvt. Ltd. 69 Green build products (i) pvt. Ltd. 177 Pennar Engineered Building Systems Ltd 101 Supreme Petrochem Ltd 119
Waterproofing Texsa Basf india Limited Bitumode International Pvt. Ltd. Cera-Chem Private Limited Chembond Chemicals Limited MC - Bauchme (India) Pvt Ltd. Nina Concrete Systems Pvt. Ltd. Reliance Industries Ltd. Sika India Pvt. Ltd. STP Ltd. The Supreme Industries Ltd. | Protective Packaging Division (PPD)
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JK Cement Ltd
News & Events
CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT
Largest Mining Truck from Volvo to do More with Less
Swedish truck and bus manufacturers Volvo launched their new 45 tonne capacity FM 480 10x4 Dump Truck specifically designed for deep opencast mining operations in India. The truck is introduced to meet the growing demands in mining industry. The Volvo FM480 is the largest truck to be launched in India and expected to be a major record breaker in the mining industry. This sturdy 5-axle Dump Truck features the most techonolgical advanced powerful driveline is built on the Volvo FM13 platform through the Volvo Eicher joint venture, The new dump truck was launched in Bengaluru at a price of `1.08 crores (Ex-showroom). This multi axle truck is the largest mining truck Volvo has ever introduced in the country. It is powered by a 13 liter Volvo D1 3A480 engine that helps to generate 480 hp, 2400 Nm torque and a power to
weight ratio of 7.38 with 24 M3 struck volume. It is this power to weight ratio that offers enhanced speed that leads to better productivity while low kerb weight ensures better fuel efficiency. The company hopes to increase sales in the future shifting its focus to mining sector in India.
trucks and natural gas tankers, military vehicles like tactical and assault trucks, and access products including scissor lifts, towing equipment, and aerial work platforms. It reported $6.13 billion in revenue in the first nine months of its current fiscal year. The company also manufactures trucks for the U.S. military and the JLG brand of mobile work platforms and material loaders used at construction sites.
Sany to invest $70 million to expand operations in India
Deere-Hitachi Construction Machinery to invest $ 97 million at its Kernersville facility
more than 1,000 employees. The company will purchase approximately 60 acres of land adjacent to its facility, a warehouse space to expand its existing facility. Overall manufacturing capacity for excavators will be increased by 60 percent. Deere-Hitachi is a joint venture between Deere & Co. and Hitachi Construction Machinery
Billionaire Investor Carl Lcahn Eyes on Oshkosh

Billionaire investor Carl Icahn, who is Oshkosh's largest investor with nearly 10% of the company's stock, said he intends to offer $32.50 a share, or $2.7 billion, for the remainder of Oshkosh's stock. The offer, which values the entire company at about $3 billion, represents a 21% premium to Oshkosh's price. But the offer is contingent on Mr. Icahn's obtaining control of company's board. Oshkosh manufactures fire trucks, cement mixers, garbage trucks, tow
Deere-Hitachi Construction Machinery Corporation has planned to invest $ 97 million and hire 340 full time employees as it expands its home base in Kernersville, N.C., near Winston-Salem.The move will boost the size of the company's facility in Kernersville to 120 acres, with more than 1.1 million square feet of industrial space, and its work force to
Chinese construction Equipment Company Sany Heavy Industry has planned to invest an additional amount of $70 million in its manufacturing base in Chakan Industrial Park near Pune, Richard Deng, Managing Director of Sany India said. The company is planning to make India a manufacturing hub for the region as it seeks to support both Indian market and countries in the region, he said. The company established a manufacturing base with an investment outlay of $60 million earlier this year. He said the company had earned ` 214 crore revenues in India last year. Richard Deng had come to India for the launch of high-end construction equipment such as back-hoe loaders, excavators and cranes in Hyderabad. He said the
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Doka India Pvt. Ltd
News & Events
CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT
demand for construction equipment will go up significantly over the next few years as the Indian Government seeks to support infrastructure growth. During 12th Year Plan, infrastructure is likely to see investment of $1 trillion. Equipment market is likely to grow to about ` 30,000 crore by 2016-17 and the company is targeting sales of ` 4,500 crore, he said. Once we have expanded capacity which will have the capability to generate total revenues of about ` 6,500 crore, we see exports to the region contributing about ` 2,000 crore,'' he said.
JLG industries introduces SkyGuard Sensor
Doosan sets up new facility for air compressor and lighting tower manufacture in Bengaluru
JLG Industries, Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company and a leading manufacturer of aerial work platforms and telescopic material handlers announced the availability of SkyGuard, an aftermarket accessory that provides enhanced control panel protection for boom lifts. When activated by approximately 50 pounds of force, the SkyGuard sensor, which can be initiated from a variety of angles, stops all
functions. Its unique reverse functionality the first feature of its kind in the market stops all functions and then undoes most functions that were in use at the time of sensor activation for less than a second's worth of time. The control system automatically accesses the functions in use by the operator at the time of SkyGuard activation, and for a small period of time is able to reverse that sequence, with the exception of certain functions. In a situation where extreme force is exerted, the sensor bar breaks away to provide additional space for the operator. A horn and optional blue flashing beacon simultaneously alerts other workers on the job site to sensor activation. Positioned in front of the platform control panel, SkyGuard does not limit platform work space or the capacity of the boom lift or disrupt operator visibility. SkyGuard uses no movable parts, eliminating the need for scheduled or additional maintenance.
C& S Crane & Rigging Inc. Sold to Barnhart

Doosan Portable Power has opened a new air compressor and lighting tower manufacturing facility in Doddaballapur, Bengaluru, India. The facility will also house all Doosan India operations, and the company plans to open a trading warehouse for other Doosan brands, including Doosan excavators, Bobcat machines and Montabert hydraulic breakers.The facility will have the capacity to produce 2000 units annually.Portable air compressors and light towers manufactured in the facility will be sold in India and additonal units will be exported to South Africa and Latin America. The plant offers outstanding vendors and manpower that will allow for the manufacture of high quality products, said J.S. Kim, managing director and CEO of Doosan India. As the market for our products continued to grow, it became necessary to have our own facility to meet our customers' needs, he said. C&S Companies has sold C&S Crane & Rigging, Inc, to Barnhart Crane & Rigging of Memphis, TN. C&S has served industrial, commercial and public sector customers throughout upstate New York since 2008 with 15-ton to 200-ton cranes and specialized rigging equipment. All C&S Crane & Rigging employees have been hired by Barnhart and will continue to operate from the existing location on Fly Road in East Syracuse. The acquisition will offer customers both the personal service and local presence that has fueled rapid growth for C&S Crane & Rigging; and will complement Barnhart's existing world-class innovation and nationwide inventory of specialized equipment. This change will be seamless to existing C&S clients and there will be no interrup-
tion of service as the ownership transition is made. This sale is evidence of the improving private economy in Central New York and will allow C&S to focus on its other constructionrelated offerings: self-perform construction, construction management at risk, and program /construction management, said Ron Peckham, president and CEO of the C&S Companies.
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Tashi India Ltd
News & Events
INFRASTRUCTURE
CCL gets nod for Operating Konar Mining Project
POWER
Mahagenco to set up Coal Washery with 12 MTPA Capacity
Maharashtra State Power Generation Company Limited (Mahagenco) is planning to set up its own coal washery with 12 million tonne per annum (MTPA) installed capacity along with a power plant based on reject coal generated from the washery at its biggest thermal power station at Chandrapur Super Thermal Power Station (CSTPS). Consultant M/s Enestee Engineering Limited has given a favourable report to install and operate coal washery of 12 MTPA capacity at CSTPS premises along with circulating fluidized bed combustion (CFBC) power plant. The report says 3.5 MTPA reject coal with gross calorific value of 1000-1200 kcal/kg will be generated. Around 600MW power can be generated from this coal, it said. The report submitted by chairman of city-based Enestee Engineering Madhu Nair said the washery and power unit with installed capacity of 250MW can be established in 62.50 acre open space available in the CSTPS premises between the
existing coal belt and the primary crusher of 210MW unit. The plant can come up on 15 acre, reject coal stockyard in 5 acre, power unit in 10 acre and greenery along with other utility area in 32.50 acre. New Delhibased Desein Private Limited has also been appointed to prepare a detailed project report of washery and CFBC power unit. CSTPS receives 11-12 MTPA coal from three coal companies; WCL, MCL and SECL. The entire coal may be washed to improve its value before it is consumed in the seven power generation units. Besides, the reject coal after washing will also be used at the CFBC power unit. likely to set up a 4,000 MW thermal power plant in Banka district to make the state self-sufficient in power generation and supply. The plant will come up at wasteland, NTPC sources said. Out of the total production the state is expected to share 2,000 megawatt of power. The 4000 MW super thermal power project would be established near Kakwara-Katoria block in Banka district. The total land area used for the thermal power project would be around 2,440 acre, said sources adding the power project officials have surveyed the area and have sought allocation of the land in the region. The Banka district administration, taking keen interest in the proposed project, has advocated for the use of wasteland in the mountainous region of Katoria block.
4000 MW Thermal Power Plant to be set up at Banka District in Bihar
The Union forest and environment ministry has given a nod operating the Konar mining project of the Central Coalfields Limited (CCL) in Bokaro district. The CCL is one of the coal suppliers to major power plants in northern states of the country including Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. Sources in the CCL said this would be one of the major opencast mines of the company spread over 288.26 hectare including forest land. The company will be excavating around 3.5 million tonnes per annum. A senior official of the company said the Union ministry has also given in principle approval for two other mining projects of Urimari in Ramgarh and Rohini in Ranchi district. Each mine will have 2.5 million tonnes capacity. The company will have additional production capacity of 8.5 million tonnes in the next couple of years to the current capacity of 55.5 million tonnes.
600 MW Thermal Plant in Tamil Nadu goes operational

The 600 MW thermal power project of the Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Company (TANGEDCO) built by BGR Energy Systems is fully operational to bring respite to the power-starved Tamil Nadu. It was in July 2008 that the Chennai-based BGR Energy Systems won the 'engineering, procurement, construction' job from TANGEDCO (then,TNEB) to put up the 600 MW plant at Mettur, against competition from the public sector power equipment major, BHEL. The order was worth ` 3,100
The Bihar State Electricity Board (BSEB) jointly with NTPC Limited is
26
Volvo India Ltd
News & Events
INFRASTRUCTURE
shortfall, Jharkhand Chief Minister Arjun Munda said. The government is preparing plans for erecting infrastructure for transmission lines that will enable the state to produce more power. He said that the state was concerned about transmission infrastructure and the Power set up in the Rangoon region. Under the agreement, Japan's Mitsuibishi Corporation, Marubeni Corporation and Sumitomo Corporation will hold a 49 percent share to run the 2,400-hectare Thilawa SEZ, while Burmese entrepreneurs in the form of public company will take 51 percent. The Japanese side will also provide financial assistance to the SEZ' s infrastructural development such as factories and workshops and one natural gas-fired power plant. The Thilawa SEZ project lies between Thanlyin and Kyauktan townships in Yangon region, which is next to the Dawei Special Economic Zone project in southern Taninthayi region.
crore. BGR went in for boiler and turbinegenerator sets from the Chinese company, Dongfang. The plant will start distribute electricity into the grid in a few days.
Power Raichur Solapur Transmission System at ` 1,930 crore
Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL) has been entrusted with the work of revamping transmission infrastructure within a couple of years. The government is hopeful of becoming power surplus by 2014 adding around 2,500MW to the existing domestic capacity, he said.
Kalpataru Power bags orders worth ` 604 crore
500 MW Gas-fired Combined Cycle Power Plant in Rangoon's Thakayta Township

The Union Power Minister M. Veerappa Moily laid the foundation stone for the 765 kV Raichur Solapur transmission system. The ` 1,930-crore project is expected to be completed by first quarter of 2014. This project will provide a major boost for inter-region power transmission. It would establish reliable and resourceful infrastructure for import of power for new grid to southern region during peak demand as well as export of surplus power from south during offpeak demand period.
Additional Power Plants to Meet Shortfall in Jharkhand

The repair and maintenance work of the Patratu Thermal Power Station (PTPS) is under progress and the government is planning to add three 660 MW power generation capacity plants at shortest possible time to replenish the existing
Five South Korean companies have signed a memorandum of understanding to set up 500-megawatt gas-fired combined cycle power plant project in Rangoon's Thakayta Township, official sources reported. Companies involved in the latest project are Busan Korea Biotechnology Co, Korea Western Power Co, Hyundai Engineering and Construction Co, Hana Daetoo Securities Co and Hexa International Co. The project is aimed at supplying electric power to the Thilawa Special Economic Zone (SEZ), one of the special economic zones
A leading global EPC player in power & infrastructure contracting sector, Kalpataru Power Transmission Limited (KPTL) has secured transmission line orders worth over ` 604 crore. The company has bagged orders for Supply and Erection of two projects consisting 765 KV D/C transmission lines of 249 kms worth ` 571 crores from PGCIL. (Power Grid Corporation of India Limited) and 400 KV S/C transmission line of around 36 kms worth ` 33 crores from a private company. KPTL is one of the largest and fastest growing specialized EPC companies in India engaged in power transmission & distribution, oil & gas pipeline, railways, infrastructure development, civil contracting and warehousing & logistics business with a strong international presence in power transmission & distribution.
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Caterpillar India
News & Events
INFRASTRUCTURE
RAILWAYS
officer has proposed extension and construction of two platforms and has called for revised plans with estimates that now nearly touch the ` 25 crore mark.
Central Railway to develop Nashik Road Railway Station
BMRC to Deciate from Original Plan to Protect Ambedkar Statue

Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRC) has decided to implement an angular deviation of the twin tunnels from the original alignment instead of shifting Dr B R Ambedkar statue in the Vidhana Soudha premises for Metro rail work. Earlier it was planned to shift all three statues and bore tunnels under the Ambedkar Veedhi. That was the best technology and cost-effective idea. But due stiff opposition from Dalit groups, BMRC has now opted for Plan B. BMRC sources said Plan B may reduce the size of the entrance to the station from the Vidhana Soudha side. The approach on the other side entrance will be longer than planned earlier. The statue stands on the spot above the underground Vidhana Soudha station. The delay in the decision had resulted in no work being taken up around the statue, though work on the station and approach tunnels is on in full swing. The Plan B's angular deviation of tunnels will ensure the statue and its foundation will remain safe and secure.
The Central Railway (CR) has decided to undertake a development programme for the Nashik Road railway station in three phases. In first phase, major offices of the Railways will be relocated. Platforms and booking offices on Eastern side will be constructed in second phase. The third phase would include the construction of a terminus. All the offices will be shifted to the open space near the railway quarters on the West-side of the station," senior divisional engineer (coordination) K L Meena said. ` 4.67 crore had been allotted to take up the work. Phase I would also focus on the development of parking spaces behind the current booking window which will have access from Subhash Road beside the nullah. The open space which will become available after shifting the construction from the site will be converted into a make-shift visitors' room during the Kumbh. Work on a pedestrial bridge to allow commuters to cross over to the railway station will also be part of Phase I activity. The creation of 115 meter siding fully equipped with facilities related to battery charding and cleaning of the tourist carriages. In Phase II of the development plan, the Railways proposes to construct two new platforms with facilities like current booking window, a passenger circulating area and other similar facilities on the East side of the station, enabling access to the station for those coming from the Sinnar -end as well. The authorities had proposed a ` 13 crore plan including the construction of platform No. 4, to which the
High Speed all Weather Train on Trial Run in China

The world's first high-speed railway built to withstand extreme cold weather conditions linking port city Dalian in Liaoning province and Harbin, capital of Heilongjiang province in Northeast China began trial operations ahead of its launch at the end of the year. The test train took three-and-a-half hours to travel the distance which will be nine hours on an ordinary train. The new line has 24 stops and connects 10 cities, including the capitals of Liaoning, Jilin and Heilongjiang provinces. Construction of the 921-kilometer line began in 2008. It is designed to reach a top speed of 350 kilometers per hour, but will travel initially at a maximum of 300 km/h, railway authorities said. The line has to withstand extreme temperatures as low as -39.9 C in winter and as high as 40 C in summer, which poses major challenges to the trains and railway construction. Zhang Xize, chief engineer of the Harbin-Dalian high-speed railway program, said the low
temperatures in Northeast China could threaten the roadbed and rail track and ice could also disrupt the power supply and signal system. The railway is fitted with special facilities to remove snow and ice from the line and to protect its power supply systems from the elements. We have used all the measures that we can come up with to ensure the safety of this project, he said. The corridor could provide a boost to the tourism industry in Harbin and Dalian, both major vacation destinations. Harbin is notable for its beautiful ice sculptures in winter and its Russian legacy, and Dalian is well known for its mild climate and multiple beaches.
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Seven Corridors Identified for Bullet Trains
began in 2010 with a budget of 13.3 billion Yuan ($ 2.1 billion) and was scheduled to be completed in 2015. China plans for bridges and tunnels through the mountains of Tibet before 2015.
ROADS
Indian Railways has identified seven corridors for conducting pre-feasibility studies for running Bullet trains to be at speeds above 350 kmph set up through PPP route. Railways is also conducting a feasibility study on Delhi Mumbai route with Japanese assistance to raise the speed of passenger trains from 160 kmph to 200 kmph and introduce as Semi-High Speed trains.Indian Railways is working on the concept of acquiring Electrical Multiple Units (EMU) Train sets for intercity journeys for operating speed ranging from 130-160 km / hour for running premium Shatabdi /Rajdhani trains, without any additional expenditure on existing track and signalling infrastructure. Railways plan to introduce distributed powered Electrical Multiple Train sets. The proposed EMU Train sets may consist of 21 cars (coaches). EMU Train sets are highly energy efficient, aerodynamically designed light weight, distributed powered trains with driving cabs at both ends like suburban trains and have many advantages like increased passenger carrying capacity by 25-30%, achieve maximum permissible speed without any additional expenditure on track and other infrastructure,improved safety due to reduced braking distance, eco friendly, noiseless, consume 30% less energy, A train set can do extra trip or day for inter city travel. China, Officials with Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) said. TBM will soon begin boring an underground path from Saidapet to Gemini. About 19 of the 32 metro stations are going to come up underground. The newly-arrived TBMs will be transported to Saidapet to commence work along the line connecting Saidapet, Chamiers Road, Teynampet and Gemini stations.The underground stations are being built at a depth of around 17 metres, with the exception of the Chennai Central metro station which would be 28 metres below the ground to accommodate two levels. The operation of the TBM may have to be tweaked to suit peculiar soil conditions as is the case around the Cooum River in Chennai.
Four laning of NH-758 at ` 899.24 crore in Rajasthan
China to Link India's Border
Metro Work along Saidapet Gemini Corridor in Chennai to start soon

The work along the Saidapet to Gemini corridor will start soon with two Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) arriving from
The Lhasa-Shigatse extension of the Qinghai Tibet Railway project will be completed a year ahead of schedule, in 2014, China's official Xinhua news agency said. The strategic 253-km rail link runs not far from India's border through the Grand Canyon of the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra River in India) and ends near Nepal's border at Shigatse. The building of the railway line
The Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure today approved the investment proposal for the implementation of the project for the development of four laning of `Rajsamand - Bhilwara` section of National Highway NH-758 in Rajasthan under National Highway Development Programme (NHDP) Phase IV on Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) basis in BOT (Toll) mode of delivery. The total project cost (TPC) estimated of the project for implementing under DBFOT pattern will be ` 899.24 crore out of which ` 221.45 crore will be for the land acquisition, rehabilitation, resettlement and pre-construction cost. The total length of the project will be 87.250 kms is covered in the Districts of Rajsamand and Bhilwara in Rajasthan. The main object of the project is to expedite the improvement of infrastructure in the state of Rajasthan, and also in reducing the time and cost of travel for traffic, particularly heavy traffic, plying between Rajsamand and Bhilwara. National Highway NH - 758 is an important corridor which links major cities of Rajasthan. It will also increase employment potential for the local labourers for project activities.
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INFRASTRUCTURE
Cabinet Committee Approves two Major Road Projects

The Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure today approved the development of six laning of HandiaVaranasi section of NH-2 in Uttar Pradesh under NHDP Phase V on Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer basis in BOT (Toll) mode of delivery. The total length of the road will be 72.398 kms. The total cost of the project including land acquisition, rehabilitation and pre-construction activities will be ` 944.90 crore. The concession period will be 28 years including construction period of 30 months. Further the Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure approved the development of four laning of KashipurSitarganj Section of NH-74 in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh under NHDP Phase IV on Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) basis in BOT (Toll) mode of delivery. The total length of theroad will be 77.20 kms. The total cost of the project including land acquisition, rehabilitation and pre-construction activities will be ` 685.84 crore. The conces-
sion period will be 21 years including construction period of 30 months. Also the Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure approved the development of four laning of Hubli-Hospet section of National Highway-63 in Karnataka under NHDP Phase IV on Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT/BOT) basis. The total length of the road will be 143.29 kms. The total cost of the project including land acquisition, rehabilitation and preconstruction activities will be `1442.48 crore. The concession period will be 27 years including construction period of 30 months
completed. All works of the 88.7 kilometer road under the Dhangadi section has been completed and preparations are on for blacktopping it, Director of the Postal Highway Project Mukti Gautam revealed. The highway, which would prove a backbone for the economic development of Nepal, would help take IndoNepal relations to a new height. An agreement to upgrade the postal road near the Indo-Nepal border, blacktop and upgrade it to a highway was signed in New Delhi by then Foreign Minister Sujata Koirala and Indian Minister for External Affairs, SM Krishna on January 15, 2010.
Two Laning of 'Salasar Haryana Border' Section at a Cost of `601.19 Crore
Work on Ula Farm Road to Resume
road began in June 2011 and was stopped for over three months because of inadequate funds.
East-West postal highway to take Indo-Nepal relations to new heights

The first phase of the East-West postal highway to be constructed in parallel to the Mahendra Highway will cover 609 kilometers of the 1,444 kilometers of the postal highway from Mechi in the east to Mahakali in the west. The postal highway is being constructed with the grant assistance of the Government of India. The project is expected to be completed at a cost of ` 50 billion, which includes the construction of 63 bridges on the way. It is estimated to take two years for the completion. The Bhairahawa-Lumbini section of the highway has been almost The Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure today approved the investment proposal for the implementation of the project for the development of two laning with paved side shoulders of 'Salasar Haryana Border' section of National Highway NH-65 in the state of Rajasthan under National Highway Development Programme (NHDP) Phase IV on Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) basis in BOT (Toll) mode of delivery. The total project cost (TPC) estimated for implementation under DBFOT pattern will be ` 601.19 crore out of which ` 71.12 crore will be towards land
The Bhutan government has allocated an additional Nu 4 million to resume work at 8.5 kilometre Ula farm road construction site in Wangduephodrang after the visit of the Prime Minister, Jigmi Y. Thinley today. Only 1.5 kilometre of the farm road has been completed till now. The construction work on the farm
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acquisition, rehabilitation, resettlement and pre-construction cost. The total length of the project will be 154.141 kms and is covered in the Districts of Churu and Sikar in Rajasthan. The main object of the project is to expedite the improvement of infrastructure in the state of Rajasthan, and also in reducing the time and cost of travel for traffic, particularly heavy traffic, plying between Salasar and the Haryana Border. National Highway NH-65 is an important corridor which links major cities of Rajasthan and Haryana. It will also increase employment potential for the local laborers for project activities. that Austrian companies have been involved in some major projects in India, both in Road and Railway projects. Starbag, a construction major have done a project in New Delhi and have secured a contract worth 83 million Euros from Delhi Metro Rail Corporation. The company along with its Indian counterpart Afcons has jointly been awarded the Rohtang pass tunnel worth 250 million Euros. Likewise Austrian company is designing a railway arch bridge in Jammu & Kashmir. Dr. C.P .Joshi said that Indian Railways envisage massive capacity augmentation, modernization and Safety enhancement plans in the coming decade. Some of the important initiatives include setting up of the Dedicated Freight Corridors, increased production and procurement of rollingstock etc. and Indian Railways look forward to participation of Austrian side in realising these initiatives, he added. The minister said that the areas of cooperation have been identified in the fields of Tunneling Technology, Training and upgrading of skills like a psychological qualification test for locomotive drivers, Track maintenance as well as track monitoring and mechanised laying of tracks, Signaling, Telecom, Traction and Rolling Stock. Also present on the occasion, were Chairman, Railway Board, Shri Vinay Mittal, all Board Members and other senior officials of Railway Board, Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport & Highways Shri A.K.Upadhyaya as well as visiting delegates of Austria.
India Austria Inks on Road and Rail Transportation
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Reliance Power to set up World's Single Largest Solar Plant at a Cost of ` 2,250 Crore
Reliance Power has raised external commercial borrowings of around Rs 1,588 crore ($302 million) to fund its 100 MW solar power project being built adjacent to India's largest thin film PV Project, the 40-MW photovoltaic project, commissioned by the company in March. Rajasthan Sun Technique, a wholly owned Reliance Power subsidiary, is developing the CSP project at a total cost of over ` 2,250 crore ($400 million), mostly through ECBs. CSP being built adjacent to India's largest thin film PV Project, the 40-MW photovoltaic project, commissioned by the company in March. The Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group company had recently signed a pact with the funding majors to raise the foreign debt.The Asian Development Bank is financing the CSP project, along with Dutch development bank FMO, US-EXIM and Axis Bank CSP project would be the single largest solar project in the world and Dhursar site has the highest solar radiation in the country for the devel-
The Minister of Railways and the Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Dr. C.P .Joshi and visiting Federal Minister of Transport, Innovation & Technology of Austria Mrs. Doris Burse signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for strengthening long-term relationship and bilateral cooperation on road infrastructure and road transportation technology matters. Under this MoU, both the sides have agreed to encourage and to establish a long term and effective relationship of communication and cooperation, including the exchange of information between both the sides concerning roads/highways infrastructure development, management, administration and road safety; the application of advanced technologies known as Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to road transportation, and other areas of mutual importance related to road transportation technologies. Speaking on the occasion, the Railway Minister said
opment of CSP project, Company spokes person said. The entire $302 million debt financing was based on ECBs. Reliance Power had awarded the solar field contract to Areva Solar Inc as its solar technology partner. The project uses the Compact Linear Fresnel Reflector technology developed by Areva Solar. CSP plants produce electric power by converting the sun's energy into heat using various mirror configurations. A conventional steam turbine generator then converts this heat-energy into electricity. The steam turbine and generator for the project have been provided by Siemens. The CSP plant is being developed under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission.
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24x7 Power Supply at Affordable cost in five years: Prime Minister
poor we require global cooperation on a gigantic scale for finanancing as well as implementing viable projects in energydeficient areas, he said. averages. First Solar has cumulatively produced approximately 80 million of its advanced, thin-film solar modules, which represents a peak generating capacity of more than six gigawatts, enough to power more than 3.3 million homes and displace about four million tons of carbondi-oxide per year.
50 MW Advanced Photovoltaic Power Plant to be set up in Rajasthan
12 MW Solar Energy Plant from Waste in Ghazipur

The Government of India aims to provide 24x7 electricity to all households in the country and affordable access to electricity in the next 5 years, Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh said at the inaugural address at the International Seminar on Energy Access in New Delhi. He said under the ongoing Rajiv Gandhi Rural Electrification Scheme, government goal is to electrify all the 600,000 villages of India. As a result of our efforts, more than 100,000 villages have been provided with electricity connections in recent years. Now, only a few thousand villages in the country remain un-electrified. Besides, one million households in India are now using decentralized solar energy to meet their lighting energy needs,he said. We aim to provide every individual household with clean cooking fuel on a priority basis.The government plans to introduce LPG for cooking in rural areas as well. Renewable energy technologies provide probably the most sustainable and economic options for energy access. At present renewable power represents about 12 per cent of the total installed generating capacity in India. The Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission, launched under the aegis of India's National Action Plan on Climate Change aims to install 20 Gigawatt of grid connected solar power by 2022. We hope to light up around 20 million rural households with solar home lighting by 2022. Overall, we aim at accelerating the overall deployment of renewable energy in India to achieve around 55 GigaWatt of renewable power by the year 2017. In order to drive out the pessimism about the future of those who are energy
First Solar, Inc., Kiran Energy Solar Power Pvt. Ltd. and Mahindra Solar One Pvt. Ltd. have completed an agreement for the supply of First Solar's advanced, thinfilm solar modules for two solar photovoltaic (PV) power plants totalling 50 megawatts (MW) plant to be constructed in Rajasthan.The two adjacent projects, which together will be one of India's largest PV installations upon completion, are part of the second batch of utility-scale solar projects concluded under India's Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (NSM). The NSM aims to install 20,000 MW of new solar electricity generating capacity by 2022. First Solar will supply more than 585,000 of its advanced, thin-film solar modules for the two projects of 30 MWDC and 20 MWDC. Construction on both projects is expected to begin this year and be completed in the first quarter of 2013. The project will enable us to create a high-quality solar plant that could rank among the best in the country in terms of quality, uptime and output. Together, the side-by-side projects are expected to produce an average of more than 85,000 megawatt-hours of clean electricity per year, equivalent to the annual electricity needs of more than 97,000 average Indian households, and displace more than 80,000 metric tons of carbondi-oxide per year based on the national
The 12 MW waste-to-energy plant set up with the collaboration of Belgian technology in Ghazipur will commence operation by October end, Mahesh Babu, Managing Director, IL& FS Environmental Infrastructure and Services Ltd (IEISL) said. According to him, about five million tonnes of waste is dumped in Ghazipur every day. IEISL said it had a scientific way of processing every aspect of waste biodegradable,inert and combustible. The biodegradable waste is converted into compost, the inert waste (construction and demolition debris) is turned into blocks and kerb stones. It is the combustible waste, such as paper, mattresses, and rubber, that are used to produce recycled products and energy, said Babu, adding that the purpose was to ensure that 80% of the waste is recycled. Once power generation begins, scheduled for December 2013, IEISL will be free to sell 50 per cent of it, as 50 per cent is for sale to BSES at a fixed price of ` 3 a unit. We are hoping to sell it to malls and corporates etc which are willing to pay a premium for green power, he said.
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POLICY
A National Steel Policy is being prepared which will provide the necessary vision and framework for increasing steel production and consumption in India, Union Steel Minister, Shri Beni Prasad Verma said. India is the fourth largest steel producer in the world and will soon be the second largest, he added. Minister said that World's crude steel production has increased steadily in the past decade from 851 million tonnes in 2001 to 1,527 million tonnes in 2011. Shri Verma said that the steel capacity in India has increased from 66 million tonnes in 2009 to about 90 million tonnes in 2012. The capacity is all set to increase further as Steel plants in both public and private sectors have taken up expansion and modernization programs. As per projection, the capacity in the country would grow to around 200 million tonnes by 2020. he said. At present, the Indian steel industry is dependent largely on imported coking coal.The recent JV agreement with KOBE Steel, Japan for the ITmk3 technology is a step in the right direction, he said.
Kochi Port Extends Concessions at ICTT Vallarpadam for One More Year
The Kochi port has extended by one more year the concession on vesselrelated charges applicable to ships calling at ICTT Vallarpadam. The concession extended is up to 86 per cent of the prescribed tariff for a mainline vessel of 60,000 gross register tonnage with 12 hours of stay at the port. This rate is attractive enough to make Kochi a transhipment hub in South Asia. There will be a 30 per cent concession on vessel-related charges for feeder vessels because of the high rates in Kochi compared to neighbouring ports in the country, senior port officials said. According to officials, it was also decided to offer 50 per cent concession in vesselrelated charges for container vessel
services with a minimum of two sailings from Kochi to West Asia and SouthEast Asia in a period of 30 days. This is subject to the condition that not more than 20 per cent of the cargo loaded from ICTT is headed to Colombo. This initiative will help draw cargo to Kochi from the primary and secondary hinterland
SBD to Replace Levelised Tariff in Power Sector
The Standard Bidding Document (SBD) would be in place by the end of this month. It will be vetted by the empowered group of ministers (eGoM) before being notified, Power Secretary P . Uma Shankar said. The eGoM on Ultra Mega Power Projects (UMPP) is headed by Minister of Defence A.K. Antony. The bidding will be based on first year tariff and not 25 years levelised tariff, as was the practice earlier. The new norm would be applicable for the three UMPPs planned in Tamil Nadu, Odisha and Chhattisgarh. The centre expects the new
methodology to be simple and transparent instead of the 25-year levelised tariff calculated after considering about eight different components. In the revised mechanism, the increase in fuel cost would be passed through to the consumer. At the same time, there would be a fixed cost and any escalation of it would be linked to the Wholesale Price Index (WPI). This would be applicable to Case-II bidding where projects are based on domestic coal blocks. The power producer does not have to bear the rise in cost of fuel, said Uma Shankar. However, bidding has a cap on the total escalation cost, he said.
EVENT
4th International conference on Construction Chemicals on 9 -10 January, 2013
Union Government to Focus on National Steel Policy
The Federation of Indian chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) jointly with Dept. of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Government of India will organise the 4th International conference on Construction Chemicals "Construction Chemicals Conclave-2012" on 9-10 January, 2013 at Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The event provides a much needed forum where the strengths of the industry will be showcased and assist in positioning the Construction Chemicals Industry in the correct perspective.
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Sustainability Road Construction
Possible Use of Some Waste Materials in Road Construction
Aravind Krishna Swamy, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi.
Animesh Das, Ph.D.

Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur.
istorically, naturally available materials like soil, stone aggregates, sand etc. had been used for construction of roads. For example, boulders, volcanic tuff and lime were used for the construction of Roman roads (Barth 1990). Subsequently, as the civilization grew, some of the naturally available materials were processed further to derive new binding materials for example, bitumen, cement etc. However, due to considerable usage of various naturally occurring materials for building road and other infrastructures, these have started depleting gradually. The cost of procurement and processing of such materials are increasing day by day. At the same time, large amount of industrial and domestic wastes are causing serious environmental problems in terms of disposal or safe storage. It is in this connection, road researches have been trying to find out possible ways to use some of the waste materials (after due processing) as alternative materials for road construction (Aravind and Das 2004). For success of such an initiative, the proposed material(s) should be safe, environmental friendly and cost effective. This article presents a brief review on possible use of some waste materials as reported in various literature. It may be noted that the list is no way exhaustive and the conclusions drawn may not necessarily be final. Further research is needed before such material(s) is/are finally recommended for use in road construction. Approach to utilization A processed waste material, which is proposed to be used for road construction, is to be assessed for its environment, health and safety hazards, physical, chemical and engineering properties, cost effectiveness, field performance etc. If environment, health and safety assessment results are negative, the candidate material is rejected as a road construction material and is recommended for safe disposal. If the material satisfies the environmental, health and safety criteria, then it is further evaluated for its physical, chemical
and engineering properties. If the chemical and physical properties of the candidate material are similar to that of traditional construction materials, then existing testing protocols may be used for evaluation of its engineering properties. Otherwise, new test procedures are to be developed. For standard materials, the testing procedures and acceptance specifications are prescribed by highway agencies or local public works departments. Further, cost evaluation needs to be performed to check the economic feasibility of using the candidate material as replacement of traditional pavement material. Sometimes life cycle cost evaluation is conducted to study in detail the overall impact of the new material on the total cost of the road project (through out its service period, including all maintenance activities). Finally, it is important to conduct field trial with the new material to
Bituminous Concrete Primarily Consists of Aggregates and Binder
Good Quality Aggregates are Gradually Depleting
Pavement Needs to Perform Well Under Various Climatic Conditions
gather information on the short-term and the long-term performance of the road. Performance studies also help to develop acceptance specifications for new road materials. Waste material used in road construction Several researchers have tried to incorporate bottom ash and fly ash in various layers of pavement (Huang 1990). Fly ash has been used as bulk filler in construction of embankments and flyovers (Yoon et al. 2009). However, due to corrosive nature of bottom ash, its usage near metallic structures is limited (Ke 1990). Studies have indicated that bituminous concrete containing bottom ash is susceptible to rutting but more resistant to stripping (Majidzadeh et al.
1979). Some field studies have indicated increased skid resistance when bottom ash is used as top wearing course of road (Shuler 1976).
Large Quantity of Stone Aggregates are Needed for Road Construction
Fly ash consists of extremely fine siliceous glass with particle size ranging from to 10 and 100 micron (FHWA 2012a). Due to its smaller particle size, fly ash has been used as mineral filler in bituminous mix. Due to increased surface area of aggregates, overall demand for binder may increase when fly ash is used as filler (FHWA 2012c). Due to pozzolonic nature, fly ash with lime has been widely used in base/sub-base courses as binder (Wen et al. 2011). Lack of homogeneity, sulphates, and slow strength development are some of the issues in using fly ash in road construction (Sherwood 1995).
Is it Possible to Have Alternative to Stone Aggregates?
Waste glass has been used as bulk filler in layers beneath bituminous layers (Ahmed 1991). Due to the presence
www.masterbuilder.co.in The Masterbuilder - October 2012 45
bulk filling material in road structure, well as in recycled aggregate concrete (Rao 2005). In fine powder form, it can also be used as fillers in bituminous mixes (Chen et al. 2011). Some studies have indicate that performance of construction and demolition waste as sub-base material is comparable to the conventional material (Rao et al. 2007). Colliery spoil has been used in bulk fill in pavement layers (Sherwood 1995). Presence of combustible matter sometimes makes this material unsuitable for direct use (Sherwood 1995). Thus, it is recommended to incinerate the waste material before being used in construction. Colliery spoil contains some amount of sulphates. Under presence of water, compounds containing suplhates tend to leach out and react with the cement (Sherwood 1995).
Building of Highway Infrastructure Requires Resources and Time
of inherent porosity in usual stone aggregates, bitumen adheres to the surface strongly, compared to broken glass pieces used as substitute for aggregates. Thus, the strength of bituminous mix with glass as aggregates are found to show lower strength than normal bituminous mix (Su and Chen 2002). It has been also observed that glass particles break under traffic and finally leads to raveling (Larsen 1989). Some studies indicated that resilient modulus and indirect tensile strength of bituminous concrete containing glass are unaffected up to 15% of glass (Sultan 1990). Construction and demolition wastes has been used as
Air cooled blast furnace slag has been used in making concrete, road base material. Also, fine ground slag has been used as filler material as well as soil stabilizer (Mroueh and Wahlstrm 2002). Due to high metallic content that is fused at high temperature, steel slag has been observed to show high skid resistance property (Asi 2007). Attempts have also been made to use foundry sand in highway construction (Kleven et al. 2000, Javed et al. 1994). Since the particle size ranges from sand to fine dust, it makes a suitable candidate for filler cement concrete (Javed et al. 1994). Also it can be used as filler in granular subgrade material. Previous research has found that bitumen has less affinity to foundry sand making bituminous concrete susceptible to stripping (FHWA 2012b). Past researchers have explored various other waste materials for their potential as alternative road construction materials, for example, spent oil shale (Gromko 1975), cement kiln dust (Hawkins et al. 2003), marble dust (Okagbue and Onyeobi 1999), incinerated residue of domestic wastes (Ciesielski 1980), sewage sludge (Lin et al. 2006), roofing shingles (Foxlow et al. 2011), polyethylene waste (Hnslolu and Aar 2004, Punith and Veeraragavan 2011) etc. The list is definitely not exhaustive and the research is still ongoing. Conclusion Available literature points out that there is ample scope for utilization of waste materials for road construction. However, one needs to proceed cautiously, because of possible environmental, health and safety concerns associated with the usage of some of the waste materials. Thus, further research is needed before any specific waste material is finally approved as an alternative road construction material. It is hoped that availability of suitable technology, appropriate legislation and awareness among all stake holders would widen the possibilities of using some of the waste materials for sustainable road construction.
Pavement Construction is a Challenging Task Under Extreme Weather Conditions
Safari Construction Equipments Pvt.Ltd
References
- Ahmed, I. (1991) Use of Waste Materials in Highway Construction. Publication FHWA/IN/JHRP-91/03. Joint Highway Research Project, Indiana Department of Transportation and Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana. Aravind, K. and Das, A., (2004) Industrial waste in highway construction, Pebbles, 1st issue, Society of Civil Engineers, IIT Kanpur. Asi, I.M. (2007). Evaluating skid resistance of different asphalt concrete mixes. Building and Environment, 42(1), 325-329. Barth, E.F. (1990). An overview of the history, present status, and future direction of solidification/stabilization technologies for hazardous waste treatment. Journal of Hazardous Materials, 24(2-3), 103-109. Ciesielski, S.K. (1980) Incinerator residues as aggregates in asphaltic concrete wearing mixes. Asphalt Pavement Construction: New Materials & Techniques, ASTM STP 724, American Society for Testing and Materials, 79-92. Chen, M., Lin, J., and Wu, S., (2011) Potential of recycled fine aggregates powder as filler in asphalt mixture. Construction and Building Materials, Vol. 25, pp.3909-3914. Foxlow, J.J., Daniel, J.S., and Swamy, A.K. (2011) RAP or RAS? The differences in performance of HMA containing reclaimed asphalt pavement and reclaimed asphalt shingles. Journal of the Association of Asphalt Paving Technologists, 80, 347-376. Gromko, G J. (1975). A preliminary investigation of the feasibility of spent oil shale as road construction material. Transportation Research Record, TRB, National Research Council, Washignton, D. C., 549, 47-54. Hawkins, G. J., Bhatty, J. I and OHare, A. T., (2003) Cement kiln dust production, management and disposal, Portland Cement Association, PCA, R&D No. 2737. Hnslolu, S. and Aar, E. (2004) Use of waste high density polyethylene as bitumen modifier in asphalt concrete mix. Materials Letters, 58 (3-4), 267-271. http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/pavement/recycling/fach01.cfm (2012a) (last accessed 10/June/2012). http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/research/infrastructure/ structures/97148/fs2.cfm (2012b) (last accessed 05/ June/2012). h t t p : / / w w w. f h w a . d o t . g o v / p u b l i c a t i o n s / r e s e a r c h / . . . / pavements/.../research/infrastructure/structures/97148/cfa52. cfm (2012c) (last accessed 05/June/2012). Huang, W., (1990). The use of bottom ash in highway embankments, subgrades, and subbases. Publication FHWA/ IN/JHRP-90/04., Indiana Department of Transportation and Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana. Javed, S., Lovell, C.W., Leonard and Wood, W. (1994). Waste foundry sand in asphalt concrete, Transportation Research Record, TRB, National Research Council, Washignton, D. C., 1437, 27-34. Ke, T. (1990) The Physical Durability and Electrical Resistivity of Indiana Bottom Ash : Executive Summary. FHWA/IN/JHRP90/06-2. Joint Highway Research Project, Indiana Department -
of Transportation and Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana. Kleven, J.R,, Edil, T.B., and Benson, C.H. (2000) Evaluation of excess foundry system sands for use as sub base material. Transportation Research Record, TRB, National Research Council, Washignton, D. C., 1714, 4048. Larsen, D.A. (1989). Feasibility of utilizing waste glass in pavements. Connecticut Department of Transportation, Report No. 343-21-89-6. Lin, C.F., Wu, C. H., and Ho, H. M. (2006) Recovery of municipal waste incineration bottom ash and water treatment sludge to water permeable pavement materials. Waste Management, 26(9), 970-978. Majidzadeh, K., El-Mitiny, R.N., and Bokowski, G. (1979). Power plant bottom ash in black base and bituminous surfacing, Federal Highway Administration. Materials Division, USA. Mroueh, U.M. and Wahlstrm, M. (2002). By-products and recycled materials in earth construction in Finlandan assessment of applicability. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, 35, 117129. Okagbue, C.O., and Onyeobi, T.U.S. (1999) Potential of marble dust to stablize red tropical soils for road construction, Engineering Geology, 53, 371-380. Punith, V. S., and Veeraragavan, A., (2011) Behavior of reclaimed polyethylene modified asphalt cement for paving purposes, Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering, Vol.23(6), pp.833-845. Rao A. (2005). Experimental investigation on use of recycled aggregates in mortar and concrete. Masters Thesis, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur. Rao, A., Jha, K.N., Misra, S. (2007). Use of aggregates from recycled construction and demolition waste in concrete. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, 50(1), 71-81. Sherwood, P . T. (1995). Alternative materials in road construction, Thomas Telford Publications, London. Shuler, T.S. (1976). The effects of bottom ash upon bituminous sand mixtures. Publication FHWA/IN/JHRP76/11. Joint Highway Research Project, Indiana Department of Transportation and Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana. Su, N., and Chen, J.S., (2002). Engineering properties of asphalt concrete made with recycled glass. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, 35(4), 259-274. Sultan, H.A. (1979). Stabilized copper mill tailings for highway construction. Transportation Research Record, TRB, National Research Council, Washignton, D. C., 734, 1-7. Wen, H., Baugh, J., Edil, T., and Wang, J., (2011) Cementitious high-carbon fly ash used to stabilize recycled pavement materials as base course. Transportation Research Record, TRB, National Research Council, Washignton, D. C., 2204, 110113. Yoon, S., Balunaini, U., Yildirim, I., Prezzi, M., and Siddiki, N., (2009) Construction of an Embankment with a Fly and Bottom Ash Mixture: Field Performance Study, Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering, Vol 21(6), pp. 271278.
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Apollo Infratech Pvt.Ltd
Urban Housing
'HOUSING FOR ALL'

Sadogopan Seshadri Cheif - Content Development, CE - Infrastructure - Environment
CITY'S SUSTAINABILITY PARADIGM:
loored by NFHR: Prospects of a Roof Overhead: As every year on the first Monday of October this year too, punctually, the World Habitat day manifested itself. But this year it came up in a new 'Avatar' with the launch of the National Forum for Housing Rights a coalition of organizations, networks, institutions, social movements and individuals across India committed to working at multiple levels to promote respect, protection and ful-
filment of the human right to adequate housing. The forum will also focus on protection against forced evictions, especially for the most marginalised. Indu Prakash Singh, convenor of NFHR and head of the urban poverty programme at Indo-Global Social Service Society, summed up a profile of NFHR at the launch. Bipin Rai, coconvenor NFHR pointed that, an alliance called the National Forum for Housing Rights (NFHR) worked across
urban India towards ensuring housing for all. However, a coordinated effort all over the country to implement a common agreed clear cut agenda to achieve planned goals in pre planned manner was lacking. To overcome this shortcoming, at a national meeting held in Indore in August 2012, NFHR was formally constituted again with seven coconveners from different parts of India assuming responsibility for different
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Urban Housing
tasks. NFHR proposes to monitor developments of national importance with regard to - housing and land issues, including the land acquisition and resettlement bill, - Rajiv Awas Yojana and - JnNURM. NFHR will initially focus on the following five thematic areas of work through research, publication, information dissemination, advocacy and strategic campaigns. The areas include - Homelessness, - Forced evictions, - Security of tenure, - In situ upgradation, - Resettlement and - Rehabilitation. Besides, It plans using the 'right to the city' framework to promote equitable and inclusive urban development and housing policies. It will organise state consultations, increase its membership and develop strategy on all the above issues within the coming year. Let's now dwell upon some historical perspectives, Right Policies, chart out the sustainable strategies on a participatory spirit basis with State that NFHR could take this movement. Working thus could smoothen obstructions that otherwise behave as speed breakers to this universal housing movement. The Relevance Factor Housing being a key part of the urban economy with its production a major economic activity in most cities. Building housing besides enhancing the economic asset as housing itself, creates host of secondary economic activities: - Laborers get employment and then spend their earnings locally, - materials purchased in the city support industries and supply businesses, and - New housing attracts further investment in the areas where it is built, and tends also to increase nearby land values. In short it is a prime driver in maintaining the sustainability of cities.
While Investment in housing accounts for 2% - 8% of GNP (up to 30% of gross capital formation) in developing countries, as an asset, it accounts for between 20% and 50% of the private asset wealth in most countries. The enormous changes happening in most Asian cities including India today, are no longer governed by any formal, agreed-upon development plans, but by an ad-hoc interplay of land politics, private sector investment and foreignfunded mega-projects. In this context, forums and approaches which promote dialogue and build consensus among the various stakeholders have become crucial. This is the relevance of Forums like NFHR and Civil society in India today. Indian Story India is one of the most rapidly growing economies in the world with a large urban population although its urbanization level is relatively low. To improve the governance framework and service levels in cities, it has formulated ground breaking urban policies in the last decade. But despite these initiatives, it has 93 million slums dwellers that could double in the next twenty years. Today, India has a shortage of 18.78 million houses in urban areas , according to the housing and urban poverty
alleviation ministry. The contribution of urban sector in India to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is currently expected to be in the range of 50-60 percent. Government's phase 2 national initiative to improve urban living conditions seeks to consolidate the national urban flagship program JNNURM targeting urban poverty, infrastructure, and local government policies, and recently launched national flagship program Rajiv Awas Yojana or RAY for the Urban Poor. RAY shall support states to provide security of tenure to slum dwellers, and finance city-wide slum free strategies. Housing and urban poverty alleviation minister Kumari Selja agrees that existing city master plans have failed to provide space for shelter and livelihoods to poorer urban communities and there is a need for a complete overhaul of the system. City's Rural- Urban Truths The two opposites that exist together in today's world: - For the first time in history, more than half of the world's population lives in cities, a group that is expected to grow by nearly 2 billion in the next 20 years. A rural to Urban migration will inevitably continue. Between 70 and 75% of city dwell-
www.masterbuilder.co.in The Masterbuilder - October 2012
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Urban Housing
Rajiv Awas Yojana or RAY shall support states to provide security of tenure to slum dwellers, and finance city-wide slum free strategies.
ers in Africa and South Asia are poor; in Latin America, more than half of the poor live in urban areas. So habitat for urban poor is an essential concern. - Conversely, most wealth is created in cities, which account for some 70% of global GDP . No advanced country has achieved its levels of development without urbanizing. So, the candid conclusion is that cities drive economic growth, which in turn is fueled by means of a migrating population that brings cheap skilled labor. This is ample evidence that for sustained
growth the urban poor need to be enabled and empowered with adequate housing needs. And cities need to expand thus accommodating more businesses & trade for a sustained economic growth. Planning: The only Survival Mantra Cities expansion is inevitable. And in this context one of the most important observations is that cities always become less dense as they expand. 'I have not found cities densifying anywhere, except for Singapore,' which as a small island nation has natural limits
on its horizontal expansion says urban planning professor Shlomo Angel. Hongkong or Singapore don't have a rural inflow like elsewhere. What this means is that as a city's population grows, the land it uses up does not simply grow it accelerates. And, like cumulative interest rates on a bank account, the effect can be dramatic. For example, while over the 200-year period sampled Paris' population grew 16 times from 581,000 to over 9.5 million, its land area grew over 150 times from 1,170 hectares to nearly 180,000 hectares. Historical Precedents Land use growth can be planned or unplanned, and both have their historical precedents. Queen Elizabeth I's proclamation that no structures should be built more than three miles outside the walls of the City of London, a policy as short-lived as it was short-sighted. By contrast, at a time that the built area of New York City occupied little more than the southern tip of Manhattan, its leaders instituted the grid that now covers the entire island, planning ahead for a sevenfold expansion of the built area. When the grid was filled up, they planned another sevenfold expansion effected with the incorporation of Kings, Queens, Bronx and Richmond Counties as boroughs of the city.
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Aquarius Technologies Pvt.Ltd
Urban Housing
growth for any entrant into a city. Raquel Rolnik the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to adequate housing points out, the concept of housing as a human right and adequate housing is not only a right in itself, but it is also the means through which inhabitants can satisfy many other rights. Being able to access the economic opportunities, water and sanitation, electricity, education and health services that a city provides and to which one is entitled to as a citizen is usually easier when one has a stable home or a recognised address in an urban area. And in some cases it is a prerequisite, such as where a utility company refuses to connect certain types of houses or addresses to the network. Urban Growth Drivers Key Policies A comparison for cities that will see massive urban expansion this century has led expert formulation of planning that will ensure sustained urbanization.(Angel in World Urban Forum). - Inevitable expansion: urbanization is a process that cannot be stopped, only shaped, by effective spatial planning. - Sustainable densities: Cities need only to be optimised. The optimization mantra is that Cities should be dense to the extent that they make the public transport system sustainable, but not so dense that they generate health risks for their inhabitants. - Decent housing: 'Adequate housing is possible only when land is in ample supply,' Most local authorities must do a lot to create it. All coalitions that restrict land supply to generate super profits for landowners, should be eliminated. It helps in the affordability of housing for all. - Public works: 'as a city expands, space for public works must be secured in advance of development,'. For once, all stakeholders and especially those who are intending to be a
Slums are the outcome of unplanned expansion in urban centers
Unplanned Urbanization = Being Submerged by Slums 'If expansion is not planned, well, it's going to happen anyway. And if it's not planned, then it's unplanned,' a tautology with a serious point to make, which is 'and the standard mode of unplanned expansion throughout human history is the SLUM.' And if we look at expected growth of the world's urban population by over 2.5 billion, we will be submerged under a lot of potentially unplanned growth which will bring alongwith it health, safety and such negative concerns. We especially here in India better start taking urbanisation a little bit seriously unless we choose to fall into this abyss.
No, this is no pessimistic thought because more than 90% of this expected to occur right here and around us, in developing countries. In this context, besides the government the burden needs to be shared by all, civil society, industry (public & private), organizations as NHRF, NGOs and the citizens. Housing - A Huge Bouquet: not Just Shelter Housing is the ticket to almost everything. It's a right to every facility Electricity, transport, education, employment, Rations et al. An address can work wonders for the urban poor. Never underestimate the value that is attached to an address. Thus, housing is his passport and spring board to
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Apollo Infratech Pvt.Ltd
Urban Housing
driving force for change (like NFHR) will do good for all by following the basic principles of spatial planning for urbanisation that have been identified, and packaged in a simple form. Ground Zero Status Central and local government authorities in cities across Asia have
attempted implementing all kinds of policies and programme to resolve problems of housing the urban poor. Most of these policies and programmes have failed miserably, but still many get resurrected by subsequent administrations. A wasteful exercise continues. These should be stopped by NFHR. Some policies/programs/ practices
prevalent not only in India but elsewhere too are brought out here: Entry barriers & Relocation ( Read as 'Push the poor out of the city') These can be by anti-urbanization policies and eviction drives which push the urban poor out of informal settlements or demolitions, thus sending them back to rural areas or out of the city into poorly-planned relocation colonies. But slums always return: people have no choice but to come back to survive. Government(s) to provide housing for the poor Many governments build subsidized public-sector housing for the urban poor. These programmes,have been very successful as well as dismal failures.The state acts as both developer and landlord. Therefore, viability will depend upon the state resources and population to cater. These have succeeded in Hong Kong and Singapore, where slumdwellers and squatters were resettled in state-built high-rise apartments. But success came because both
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Tekla India Pvt.Ltd
Urban Housing
whichever is higher. upto 50-55% of total Housing;
Private sector as provider for the poor Some government policies incentivize the private sector to develop housing for the urban poor. incentive schemes work in several ways. Authorities may only allow private developers to build middle and highincome housing if the developer agrees to build a certain percentage of the units for low-income groups, at certain low sale prices. In practice, however, the developers have found loopholes and ways of getting around the rule, so in the end, very little affordable housing gets built. Blind-Eye Policy And the worst is to turn a blind eye to the problem itself. Thus, neither resettlement into the rural areas nor resettlement into subsidized public sector housing schemes have been feasible. Such governments by default have allowed policies which leave most of the slums and squatter settlements to continue without eviction till there arises need for an immediate alternative land Making Urban Migration Work for the Better Let's see few of the solutions that can be made to work favorably: - Instead of trying to stop migration, the best thing to do is to introduce realistic policies and programmes which help make urbanization work better for the poor and for the city as a whole. - Poverty reduction and human development are incremental processes they don't happen over night, especially with so many poor people moving into cities. Policies to achieve adequate housing for all the urban newcomers can only be realized progressively. - The urban poor themselves are the major resource in poverty reduction and urban development. If governments can find creative ways to enable and support this process, instead of undermining it, the
Hong Kong and Singapore are wealthy city-states, with relatively small urban populations and no rural hinterland at all and therefore no rural-urban migration to deal with. In other countries, subsidized public-sector housing has mostly failed, with financial problems because the low income housing needs much greater than governments' affordability. The supply badly lags behind demand. Because most cities also face a shortage of affordable housing to all
income groups, market forces have enabled middle-income groups to gradually invade subsidized lowincome housing Units on a large scale. Master Plan Delhi (MPD) 2021 foresees Housing for poor: - In-situ slum rehabilitation, including using land as a resource for private sector participation; - Mandatory provision of EWS housing / slum rehabilitation in all group housing of 15% of permissible FAR or 35 % of dwelling units on the plot,
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Urban Housing
Squatter Area Along a Street in Hyderabad
poor themselves can drive the process of incremental development of housing and settlement upgrading, and become a partner in finding acceptable sustainable solutions to problems of housing and basic services. Good Urban Governance Sustainable Urban development is the nett outcome of deliberations made
by a wide range of public and private actors, with best solution emanating when the urban poor are integral part of such constructive partnerships. The best approach for governments to help resolve problems of urban migration and housing is to ensure that no group is excluded from participation in the decision making process in solving problems, while ensuring nobody
is excluded from the benefits of urban development and public resources invested in solving these problems. The Final Word: Do Not Forget 'Sustainability' The cities agenda is a dual agenda: Universal housing and services, and also Universal employment and disposable income.
Squatter camp in Hyderabad
Neither can occur sustainably without the other. Hence the need for all heralding the 'Housing for all' should not overlook the 'Sustainability' aspect. A city can sustain only on universal disposable incomes that could meet the cost of services needed for its sustainability. To succeed in their mission, NFHR or any such agency/outfit in India or elsewhere and respective governments, need to promote both these essential aspects in a balanced fashion simultaneously. In doing so funding agencies will have a high confidence level and this will ensure consistent capital inflow.
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Communication Feature
Tyre Protector:
Revolutionary Tyre Sealants Now in India!
yre Protector (India) Private Limited (TPI) has launched the revolutionary tyre sealant Tyre Protector in India. The company, based in Chennai, is setting up a nationwide distribution network to market the sealant to the commercial and passenger segments. Developed by Tyre Protector International Ltd, UK, Tyre Protector is a unique tyre performance product that enhances the life of the tyres and helps to reduce punctures and consequential downtime by up to 100%! The tyre sealant which can be used in any tubeless pneumatic tyre is usually installed through the valve stem after removal of the valve core. Rotation distributes the sealant evenly around the inner surface. When a puncture occurs, the air inside the tyre pushes the sealant into the wound instantly repairing the puncture from within by forming a flexible
rubber plug. The sealant contains millions of microscopic fibres, cooling agents, natural rubber particles,
special adhesives and rust and corrosion inhibitors. All of the chemical components are ones used within the food industry and are totally non-toxic and biodegradable. The sealant also gives up to 30% cooling in the tyre inner chamber. Tyre Protector has undergone stringent laboratory testing by the chemical and mechanical engineering department of the Mining Safety Technology Centre, NSW, and Australia. It was also tested by Warrington Fire Research in the UK and conformed to the UK Naval Engineering standard 02-713(NES713). The tests were to confirm the suitability and safety of Tyre Protector Sealants for use in underground mining operations in Australia where the safety requirements are considered to be the highest in the world. The tests confirmed that the toxicity and combustion levels of the
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product meet all of the stipulated safety requirements. Tyre Protector is also an ISO 9001 certified company. Tyre Protector Sealant may not be the answer to all the tyre problems but it will definitely reduce the amount of punctures you experience and extend tyre life. Although the sealant can be used in any tubeless tyre in any vehicle, it is particularly beneficial in plant, construction and mining applications where punctures and vehicle downtime are hazardous and expensive. It has been developed to withstand extreme
industrial conditions and environments. Tyre Protector makes the operations safe especially in steep gradients, where a single puncture/flat can topple down the vehicle and cause loss of lives and damages. For any business that heavily depends on vehicle transportation, a puncture is the biggest enemy. Buses are schedule and time bound, any loss of time for them can disrupt the entire operations and tremendous loss of revenues and goodwill. For truck and fleet operators, the most irritable problem is punctures. Consider a fleet carrying an Over-Dimensional Cargo (eg Windmill Blade, Large Turbines etc). A puncture while on road can in turn cause multiple Tyre Bursts. Consider a Truck Bus Radial Tyre of 11 R 22.5, which can cost anything about INR 22000 per tyre. Our survey shows that the cumulative costs of tyre repairs, maintenance, vehicle downtime, driver downtime, loss of schedules due to punctures is more than 25% of the original
tyre cost. Tyre Protector helps to protect from such problem situations and save recurring costs by up to 80% for the entire legal life of the tyre and that too with an investment of approximately the cost of just one new tyre.* TPI has got a very encouraging response from many large mining and cement companies apart from fleet owners and transport corporations, where they have tested the product and then placed their orders. The company has Sales and Service managers supporting dealers in Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and is now expanding to other states.
For further details:

Tyre Protector (India) Pvt. Ltd.
Flat G-1, Subgriha Apartments, 22, Second Street, Nehru Nagar, Adyar, Chennai - 600002 Ph: +91-44-43563377, E-mail: sales@tyreprotector.co.in Web: www.tyreprotector.co.in
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MC Bauchemie India Pvt.Ltd
Realty FDI Impact
FDI in Multi-Brand Retail:

Bhavani Balakrishna
hile the dust is yet to settle in the aftermath of the introduction of several bold reforms by the Indian government including the opening up of FDI in multi-brand retail, the real estate industry is already pinning their hopes on their reversal of fortunes in the retail real estate with the injection of FDI. Couple of years ago, the Indian real
Revived Optimism in Retail Real Estate
W
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estate industry witnessed a spectacular growth in the retail estate with the advent of malls in major metro cities. This growth was driven by a combination of several variables including favourable demographics, rapid urbanization and a steady growth in disposable incomes. However, since then the pace of growth in this sector has considerably slowed down.
As per a recent report by Cushman & Wakefield, the Indian retail real estate market recorded a deferment of more than 30 percent of retail mall space against the projected supply for the first half of the year. Approximately 1 million square feet expected mall supply was deferred to second half of the year or next year. The overall vacancy rate for the major cities as of H1 2012
Realty FDI Impact
Additional mall space requirement by 2013 - 14 45
Break-up of all mall space by format (2013-14)

1%
Hypermarkets Apparel stores
6% 3% 8%
21%
Multiplexes, gaming & food court Department stores
21
9% 19%
Footwear stores Restaurants & fastfood outlets Mobile stores
8%
Top 4 Cities* Next Four Cities** Demand (million sq ft)
Source: Technopak Advisors Pvt Ltd, Cushman & Wakefield Research Note:*: NCR, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai, **; Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad and Ahmadabad
10% 14%
Super markets Jewellary & time wear outlets
Source: Technopak Advisors Pvt Ltd, Cushman & Wakefield Research
stood at 19.6 percent, marginally higher than the previous quarter. Industry experts attribute this to the disequilibrium between demand & supply of real-estate. Also, because of the uncertain economic climate and weaker business sentiment, developers were cautious about new launches of malls. A policy change such as the introduction of FDI in multi-brand retail should be a significant boost for absorption. The entry of foreign retailers would not just address the high vacancy in retail real estate but also help in the growth of such developments in future. Reputed real estate consultancy, Jones Lang Lasalle believes that this rise in absorption rate of retail realty space will be to the tune of 10-15% in the first year and up to 35% by the third year with the highest amount of absorption in Tier II and Tier III cities. India ranks second among top 20 countries with the strongest momentum in retail real estate index as per Jones Lang Lasalle. It lags behind China due to weaker investment prospects and a smaller presence of global retailer. In top positions are China, India, Indonesia, Turkey, Brazil and Vietnam. The index aims to identify those countries with the strongest momentum in terms of consumer, retailer, developer and investor activity. The flow of
foreign funds in multi-brand retail should further the prospects of the country. It is expected that the inflow of fresh investment into the retail sector will trigger investment in real estate at the front-end and back-end both. On the front end, retail store spaces will see investments and in the back end, better quality warehouses could be seen. Pankaj Renjhen, Managing Director (retail services) of Jones Lang LaSalle India pointed out that the move would also increase transparency in the real estate sector. He added that the new
The new initiatives will increase the interest and confidence level of real estate developers to set up quality shopping centers
Pankaj Renjhen
Managing Director (Retail Services), Jones Lang LaSalle India
initiatives will increase the interest and confidence level of real estate developers to set up quality shopping centers. Tier II and Tier III cities are now emerging as the new heroes for the Indian retail industry due to rise in disposable incomes and consumers' propensity to spend. Since rentals and other operational costs are substantially lower vis--vis metros, many Tier II retailers and shopping centers are getting higher margins on their investment. Recent data show that Tier II markets like Surat, Indore, Jaipur, and Vizag are witnessing strong double-digit growth and clocking higher growth rates than established markets. Developers who had to shift their focus to residential real estate due to the low levels of absorption and high vacancies are now keen to get on with their massive retail projects. One of India's largest real estate player DLF, is coming up with a 1.8 million sqft mall at Noida called 'Mall of India', also the country's first Gold Leed certified building, high on energy efficiency. As per an analyst report, for companies like DLF, the recent announcement of 51% FDI in multi-brand retail and relaxation of FDI norms in single brand retail will have a positive impact on demand for retail real estate space. The report states that while actual demand cre-
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Realty FDI Impact
ation may take 1-2 years, the development is a strong sentimental positive for developers like DLF with exposure to retail vertical. DLF has 1.4 million square feet of operational retail area and another 1.8 million square feet under construction in Noida. It is also expected to start construction on India's largest mall in Gurgaon sometime next year. Wave Infratech has recently announced the launch of Wave City Centre, a mixed use development located in Noida sector 25A and 32 covering 152 acres. Spread over a total built-up area of 40 million sq.ft., the project will have over 100-storey tower, convention center, 4-and 5-star hotels, business hotel, offices, premium serviced residences, serviced multi-use studios, mall, and entertainment facilities. The project will be completed in three phases with an estimated cost of approximately ` 10,000 crore. One of the USP of the development is touted to be a collection of high-street shop condominiums. The shopping zone will occupy 8.5 lakh square feet area available in sizes of 60 square meters, 74 square
The biggest retail outlet in the country 'The Mall of India' is expected to be operational by July 2013.
meters, 75 square meters, 78 square meters, and 90 square meters. It will house ground + 2 floors with independent entry and exit points for the shopping condominiums, allowing direct
Vizag Central Shopping Mall : Tier II and Tier III cities are now emerging as the new heroes for the Indian retail industry
access to the specific point of visit. The facade of the high-street shops will be made of glass having uniform and predemarcated signage spaces. Down south,the share of South India's retail stock to the pan-India stock is expected to record a notable increase from 20% at end-2011 to 36% by end-2016.Retail stock in the southern cities is set to breach 40 million sqft mark by end-2016, as it increases its share to 36% of the pan-India stock. Most of the mall stock in Southern cities are Grade 'A' as opposed to those in the Northern and Western regions. Some of the prominent active developers in the Southern retail market include Emaar MGF, Salarpuria Group, Mantri Developers, Lanco Group, RMZ Corp, Prestige Group, DLF, Kshitij Group, Karle Group, and Aparna Constructions among others. While demand remains healthy for organized retail spaces, it is polarised towards either successful malls or high streets, which have better footfalls and conversion ratio. Vacancy is still likely to increase due to the upcoming sub-standard retail space becoming operational. As the mall stock in the southern cities sum up to breach the 40 million sq ft
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Dow Corning India Pvt.Ltd
Realty FDI Impact
Wave Infratech has recently announced the launch of Wave City Centre, a mixed use development located in Noida sector 25A and 32 covering 152 acres
mark by end-2016, the vacancy by then is expected to witness a notable decline from the peak levels of 2014 to drop below the national average of 20.5%. Developers are also positive that this may also indirectly lead to an increased demand for residential units due to an increase in disposable incomes generated by employment opportunities in the
retail sector. Since most global major chains and hypermarkets look at retail space of 50,000-60,000 square feet, this should propel development of retail real estate to a higher level. The industry is still unsure on how many foreign retailers may enter and one can ascertain the real impact of the policy only after a period of 6-12 months.
Prestige Sujana Forum Mall a 1.1 Million Sq.Ft property under development in Hyderabad.
Despite big players like Carrefour and Tesco evincing interest, riders to the FDI such as the size of the city population, the approval of the concerned state government, minimum investments of which 50 per cent should go for backend operations and infrastructure limitations might hold back many foreign players for now. It is expected that the actual injection of foreign funds in the Indian domestic retail sector may take at least three years. Lack of sophisticated retail planning is another major challenge the sector faces. Available space is easily interchangeable between commercial and retail use. In most cities, it is difficult to find suitable properties in central locations for retail, primarily due to fragmented private holdings, infrequent auctioning of large government owned vacant lands and litigation disputes between owners. As per a recent report by Knight Frank, foreign investment in single-brand retail has failed to gain momentum despite hike in FDI limit to 100 per cent from 51 per cent earlier. The report states that one of the primary reasons which put down the interest of foreign players was conditions on sourcing from small scale industry. However, it expects that there would be improvement in the FDI inflow in single-brand retail over the next 6-12 months as conditions on ownership and sourcing has been eased. Globally, India is perched on a cusp. The approval for FDI in single brand and multi brand outlet in India can bring about a paradigm shift in the Indian retail scenario. With international retailers expressing interest in the country, it is expected that this will have a positive impact not only on absorption and demand in retail real estate but also significant enhancement in back end logistics and quality of retailing. However, a successful business is not only about a great strategy but also about effective implementation. This holds true in real estate also, where location and great product ideas are extremely important but equally important is the execution capability of the developer/promoter.
70
Sika India Pvt.Ltd
Robotics
Rise of the Machine:

Robots Show Promise to Take Over High-rise Construction
Chaitanya Raj Goyal
he Indian subcontinent is often considered a region where most types of automation have been introduced slowly. Thus, the history of construction automation in India is relatively short as compared to that of developed countries which go back over 25-30 years in construction automation. Today, as buildings become higher, larger and more complex, building con-
struction needs more accurate technology and more skilled workers on site than ever before. However, the number of skilled workers is decreasing in many countries, because the younger generation does not prefer labor work, and many skilled workers are aging. Not only does this increase labor costs but also the overall construction costs, and also raises the possibility of acci-
dents, poor-quality work, and delays in construction schedules. One of the proposed solutions for these issues is the automation and robotization of the construction processes. In addition to the above potential reasons to introduce more technology in the construction sector, a contractor and equipment dealer in India is also pointing to safe work practices as an
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Robotics
These advances in technology, especially in robotic fabrication, promise high precision and differentiation in build production without necessarily implicating greater expenditure of labor and materials. Despite these potentials, very few automated building processes have been realized till date. Against this background, we need to identify the aptitudes of robotic fabrication on a conceptual and technical level and investigate possible impacts on contemporary design of high rise buildings. This should be done in the urban context of metro cities, which are characterized by the extensive demand for high rise housing, while paying special attention to the local sites and specific constructional parameters in which these techniques are to be deployed. The goal is not to automate the complete building process. Rather the module should carefully develop specific design logics and constructional processes in high rise housing programme, and identify the points at which a robotic intervention makes sense. This will allow us to develop new high rise building typologies, offer insights into the production of formal variety and differentiation in generic urban conditions, and test the integration of robotic technologies into design and fabrication of key aspects of high rise housing projects in developing Indian metros. Assembling elaborate environments: Robots on the move The use of robots, combined with digital design tools, means a new aesthetic becomes possible, with novel shapes and patterns that would be nearly impossible to achieve without the automated machines: industrial manipulators that are extremely precise and good at repetition. Currently tech savvy nations like Japan claim to have developed 89 - single task construction robots and 11 different automated construction systems. Using robots, researchers in Singapore, have fabricated intricate building parts out of wood, concrete, bricks, and foam, and have used these parts
important reason to spur a revolution in how construction work is performed. Synchronizing high rise construction with robotics: Analyzing the scope Recent developments in the fields of computer-aided architectural design and robotic fabrication have opened the potential for a seamless connection between design and fabrication data.
to build complex, beautiful installations in Zurich, London, Barcelona, New York, and other locations. Though such creations thus far are limited in size, the architects are currently exploring the idea of applying robotic fabrication to the design and construction of highrise buildings. The results thus far have been impressive. In one of their projects, Swiss architects fitted a manipulator robot in a modified freight container - a mobile fabrication unit that could travel anywhere in the world. They took it to Manhattan a few years ago in 2007, where the robot built a 22-meter-long (72 feet) brick structure. In another project, they used the robot as a milling machine, to create parts that could shape the acoustics of a room. Some of their most interesting creations, though, are the ones that use robots to assemble elaborate environments. Newly developed fabrication robots, called ROB Units, build structures by placing modular pieces of building materials such as brick or wood in preprogrammed patterns. Algorithms and parameters written by the architects feed the design of the structures. The results are intricately detailed and beautiful installations. The advantages of employing robots in construction are precision and consistency, conditions normally vulnerable to the element of human error in construction. Combined with digital design programs, automated robots can manipulate materials into shapes and patterns that rely on exact replication and repetition. Until recently the robots have been used to prefabricate the structures in controlled environments. In order to operate the robots directly in the construction sites, researchers are developing units to cognitively adapt to construction tolerances and variations, and to correct course. Flying high: Counting on airborne robots If you're a young engineer looking for a job with a future, you might con-
73
Robotics
Bolt Feeding Device
Gripper
Tool Charger
Bolting End-Effector Robot
sider learning as much as you can about flying robotics. Underlining the importance of robotics in construction, flying quadrocopters recently built a 20-foot-tall tower at a museum in France. Made of 1,500 polystyrene blocks, the tower represents a model of a futuristic 2,000-foot tall "vertical village" capable of housing as many as 30,000 people. Each 'quadrocopter' was equipped with custom electronics and onboard sensors, which made it easy to precisely control each copter. This allowed for pre-programmed flight paths, such as arcs and spirals, and it prevented the copters from flying into each other.
The same technology is also used for automating routine take-offs, landings and vehicle calibration and charging. Rapid flights kept things on schedule and cut down on construction delays. The flying constructor robots provide a glimpse in the future of building construction. They've already essentially taken over the building of automobiles in factories around the world. Why not the next-generation of skyscrapers? Once architects finish a blueprint for a building (on CAD systems), computers and robots will take over, interpreting the designs and activating robotic copters to finish construction.
Some existing automated systems: Striving for acceptance Japan has already applied automation systems to the manufacturing industry a long time ago, and obtained outstanding accomplishments regarding safety and productivity. With core technologies obtained from the manufacturing industry, major construction companies led construction automation projects. The major results are as follows: total automated building construction systems (the roof push-up, SMART, ABCS, the T-up system, the liftup method, etc.), concrete floor surface finishing robots, and a shield machine for constructing underground expressways. These systems were initially called Construction Factories (CFs) because they were developed to make the entire construction process fully automated and free from the effects of outdoor weather conditions, just like factories. The goals were as follows: 1) improvement of safety and environment on construction sites; 2) low affects from the weather; 3) productivity increments; and 4) reduction of material waste. But, the developed systems were too heavy and expensive. Due to these reasons, although the systems were very successful in terms of productivity gains, they could not be popularized. The Automated Building Construction System (ABCS) is a new construction system developed to solve
The elements were constructed by a digitally controlled robot that cut and precisely placed the slats according to an algorithmic pattern
74
Igloo Tiles
Robotics
22m long brick structure built by 'Manipulator Robot'
these problems and at the same time increase productivity. ABCS employs an erection system by which to install steel members, external panels, etc., which differs from a typical conventional tower crane system, provides a working space protected from the elements by a shell. ABCS also incorporates various integrated automation and information technologies. In 1993, the ABCS was used for the first time to build a high-rise building (10 floors above ground). Shimizu Manufacturing system by Advanced Robotics Technology-
SMART represents more recent attempts at computer integrated construction (CIC) that claims to reduce by 30% the number of man-hours required to complete a multi-storey building. System set-up takes about six weeks, after which the building's top floor and roof are erected on top of four jacking towers: the effect is to resemble a top-hat. The jacking towers are used to push up the 1,323 ton top floor assembly - the main work platform - as well as lifting their own bases from floor to floor in a cycle time of around two and a half hours. The heart of the system is com-
posed of lifting mechanisms and automatic conveying equipment which is installed on the work platform. This later becomes the roof of the building. Overhead gantry cranes are connected to the underside of the roof structure in a way that resembles a factory production facility. Trolley hoists are used to lift and position components which are introduced at ground level. The whole process is computercontrolled, though workers are still involved in overseeing operations at least for the time being. Simplified connections between components facilitate rapid erection times: self-centering column connections require only finetuning with a torque wrench and a laser-guided gauge. A clamp-on welding robot - one of a few task-specific devices is used afterwards to effect the final mating of the column ends. Floors emerge from under the top-hat preclad - again from the inside - allowing work in fitting out to begin immediately. Weather is excluded from the job-site by a mesh fabric hung around the work area. Racks of pre-assembled pipe work are a further example of an entire approach to rationalizing design and production, the aim of which is to drive down the man-hours required for production. SMART thus automates a range of production processes including: Erection and welding of steel frames; Place-
Milling machine Robot creating parts to shape the acoustics of a room
Quadrocopters being used to build a tower model in France
76
Cera Chem Pvt Ltd
Robotics
SMART system for High Rise Buildings
High-Rise Building inspection robots - NDT
ment of precast concrete floor planks; Exterior and interior wall panels; Installation of various prefabricated units. Inevitably, with the first run of anything, costs are higher than normal: it would be unusual if it were not so. However, further improvements to the systems will enable them to have wider application and, hence, lower costs because of economies of scale and familiarity with the technology. Likewise, lower costs will make the system more attractive.
Future R&D continues: Flesh vs. metal Who will build the next generation of skyscrapers? Will construction crews rise to the challenge and take materials into lofty stratospheric heights? Or will robots answer the call to streamline the task-as they have with such precision in the automotive industry. Automation of construction processes has potential significant effects on construction of buildings. Since 2006 architects & engineers worldwide
Robotic cleaning systems for windows and faades on high-rise buildings
have explored various manufacturing techniques, including both subtractive and additive fabrication, as well as a wide range of materials, to create astonishing structures entirely built by robots. Despite the global initiative for research and application in this field, the Indian construction industry still remains unreceptive to these technologies and continues as a craft-oriented and laborintensive industry with minimal automation of tasks. By the next decade, it looks like robots will take over some of the work of building high-rise towers. This new building technology is expected to bring down the number of injuries at high-rise construction sites and also cut down on the time spent on building them. It may only be a matter of years before robots take over such deathdefying work. Not surprisingly, the robotled systems are expected to cut labor costs by up to one-third and start-to-finish project time by around 20 percent. Add it all up and experts say it will boost overall productivity by an impressive 25 percent. Although the fully automated construction site is still a dream of many civil engineers, research developments have shown the promise of robotics and automation in high rise and other construction.
78
BASF India Ltd
K-FIX: From Chembond Chemicals Ltd.

hembond Chemicals Limited is a known name in India, manufacturing a diverse range of specialty chemicals like water treatment, metal treatment, construction chemicals, high performance coatings and industrial biotech products. The company has excellent infrastructure facilities like a well equipped R & D laboratory, multiple regional offices and production plants, well trained personnel and references across several business segments from the best known companies in the field. Since its inception and modest beginnings in the year 1973, Chembond and itsgroup companies are today market leaders in the metallic surface treatment and industrial water treatment chemicals field in India. Drawing on these experiences, in 1994, Chembond introduced a range of products of which some were directed towards the building and construction industry. Our Construction Chemicals Business The Construction Chemicals Division of Chembond offers a wide range of products for applications in concrete modification, waterproofing and repair and rehabilitation of structures. It also offers a host of other product solutions like Sealants, Concrete Admixtures, Tile fixing adhesives, Tile Joint fillers and Engineering Grouts aimed at the construction and civil engineering industries. About K-Fix: The K-Fix brand of construction chemicals cater to the distribution channel and applicator segment with small pack sizes, while the infrastructure projects are catered by the KEM series of products in bulk pack sizes. K-Fix is a Construction Chemicals brand. Various products are available under
Our Range of Products
the K-Fix brand which have application at different stages of construction and repair. K-Fix products are used across segments housing, commercial and industrial and are engineered to perform in Indian conditions. It is available for distribution channel and for professional applicators. K-Fix provides solution for Waterproofing, Repair, Sealant, Grout & Tiling. It has high quality standardised products with latest technology formulations which enables high quality construction, ease of application without affecting any other properties. K-Fix has following advantages & benefits: Advantages Factory manufactured, high quality products. ISO certified. Easy to use and economical. Easily available across the country. Technical Support from our experts. Available in convenient pack sizes.
Benefits Training provided to applicators. Makes high quality construction possible. Easy to use, can be used with minimal training. Fast and Durable. Can eliminate the need to re-do jobs. Leads to higher customer satisfaction.
Certification ISO 9001:2008 certified. EN ISO 14001:2004 certified.

Chembond Distribution Limited
Chembond Centre, EL-71, Mahape MIDC, Navi Mumbai - 400 705. Ph:022- 39213000, Fax: 022-39213100 E-mail: feedback@buildsys.co.in Web: www.chembondconschem.com
80
Geosynthetics
Geosynthetic Opportunities Associated with Energy Production and Transmission

Bob and George Koerner
Geosynthetic Institute
n subdividing the many application areas of geosynthetics one usually focuses on transportation, geotechnical, geoenvironmental, hydraulics and smaller areas such as mining, agriculture, aquaculture, etc. An added and seldomly discussed application area, however, is to consider primary energy sources and then to investigate the various geosynthetic opportunities in each specific source area. This particular approach is taken in this white paper stimulated largely by the present intense activity in shale gas plays. The worldwide energy situation is given in Figure 1 wherein the traditional source types are oil, coal, gas, hydro and nuclear representing 95% of the total. Within the recent renewables are wind power, solar energy, biomass, biofuel and geothermal sources. Using the collective energy from all of these sources gives an interesting worldwide perspective as to the present status. Even further, see the following listing of individual energy consumption in units of kWh/capita (from IEQ/
OECD Wikipedia) and at least one projection in Figure 2 as to what the future might hold. - - - - - - - - USA 87,215 EU-27 40,821 Middle East 34,774 China 18,608 Latin America 14,421 Africa 7,792 India 6,280 The World 21,283
Using this global picture as background information, this white paper addresses the major geosynthetic opportunities (present and possibly future) within the various individual energy sources. Geosynthetics in Oil Production, Transportation and Storage Oil, of course, consists of a well drilling and pumping
Figure 2. Worldwide primary energy use by fuel type. Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration Report #: DOE/EIA-0484 (2010)
operations which (when recovered) must then be transported, converted and stored or directly used as an energy source. The major geosynthetics applications with respect to oil operations appear to be as follows: - Paved and unpaved road construction using geotextiles and/or geogrids to access the well site and storage locations.
Figure 1. Energy sources in the world (compl. IEA-Wikipedia)
Geosynthetics
- Geomembrane liners at the well site to control surface contamination. - Geomembranes as secondary liners for storage tanks and tank farms; see Figure 3. - Plastic pipe (geopipe?) at almost every stage of the operation. - The uniqueness of oil sands represent opportunities for final covers of the spoil as well as control of numerous environmental contamination situations. Geosynthetics in Coal Mining, Transportation, Storage and Waste Disposal Coal, the classic energy source, is either mined at depth or strip mined from the surface. The major geosynthetics applications with respect to coal operations appear to be as follows:
Natural gas is available in various forms, see Figure 5, but shale gas recovery relies on horizontal drilling and hydrofracing and is currently under rapid development. In fact, its availability is so plentiful that it is influencing the entire energy pricing structure. In this regard, one can expect the energy distribution graphics of Figures 1 and 2 to change significantly in the near future. The major geosynthetic applications with respect to natural gas operations, particularly shale gas plays, appear to be as follows (see Figure 6). - Geomembrane liners for fresh water storage and use. - Double lined geomembrane systems for frac water and production water storage, sedimentation and reuse. - Double lined geomembrane systems for disposal of
Figure 3. Geomembranes used as secondary containment for tank farms, gas stations, etc
- Paved and unpaved roads using geotextiles and / or geogrids to access the mining operation and for transportation to the shipping site. - Numerous environmental contamination controls such as erosion control materials, silt fences and sedimentation pond liners. - Mine safety applications using various geosynthetic materials. - Mechanically stabilized earth stabilization berms and final cover for coal spoil tips. - Mechanical stabilized earth (MSE) walls and slopes for coal combustion residuals (CCRs) such as fly ash, bottom ash, flue gas desulfurization materials, and boiler slag. This applies to both dry disposal as well as slurried disposal, see Figure 4. Geosynthetics in Natural Gas Production and Transportation
Figure 5. Various types of natural gas (compl. EIA)
vertical and horizontal well cuttings. - Geomembrane contamination prevention liner mats in the immediate well drilling vicinity. - Rigid and transportable polymeric working mats (3-D cells) at the well drilling area. - Local paved road widening and reconstruction using geotextiles and/or geogrids for access to these remote sites. - Unpaved road construction using geogrids and/or geotextiles leading from the local paved roads to the well pad and its related operations. - Mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls and slopes using geosynthetic reinforcement to provide level surfaces for operations and materials storage. - Erosion control materials (of all types) to control slope and channel erosion from occurring. - Large amounts of plastic pipe (HDPE and PVC) for fresh water, frac/production water as well as the final gas product transmission. Geosynthetics in Hydroelectric Power Production
Figure 4. Recent failures of dry and wet disposal of coal combustion residuals.
Hydroelectricity provides power by virtue of the gravitational
Geosynthetics
force of falling or flowing water. The various forms are conventional dams, pumped storage, run-of-the-river, tidal, and underground (waterfall or lake). While Figure 1 shows that only 3% of power is from this source, more recent reports claim the figure is as high as 16%. The three new
turbines to produce electric power. Although the losses of the pumping process makes the plant a net consumer of energy overall, the system increases revenue by selling more electricity during period of peak demand, when electricity prices are the highest. The major geosynthetic applications with respect to hydroelectricity generation appear to be as follows: - Geomembrane and geosynthetic clay liners for upper and lower reservoir liners for pumped storage hydroelectricity. - Geomembrane waterproofing on the upstream face of earth fill, concrete and roller compacted dams. - Geonet, geocomposite and geotextile drainage materials between the dam and the waterproofing geomembrane. - Thick needle punched nonwoven geotextiles as geomembrane protection materials. - Geomembrane and/or geosynthetic clay liner waterproofing of the channels leading water to the generation station. - Tunnel waterproofing with geomembranes for discharge from the dam to the generating station. - Obviously, large amount of plastic pipe to convey water to the end user. Geosynthetics in Nuclear Power Generation Within nuclear power generation plants there are limited geosynthetic opportunities (other than conventional geosynthetics used at all heavy construction sites) with the notable exception of containment of the subsequent
Figure 6. Overview of shale gas well drilling site and typical congestion of multiple operations (compl. Wikipedia)
huge dams in China, Brazil and Venezuela likely account for some of the increase. Nevertheless, hydroelectricity power generation has been practiced for centuries. Bulletin No. 135 of the International Committee on Large Dams (ICOLD) shows that 250 dams have been constructed with geomembranes as waterproofing barriers, see Table 1. More than half of the above are rehabilitation projects only initiated after excessive seepage or cracking of the structure has occurred. Photographs of these three dam types are shown in Figure 7. A significant variation of conventional dams for water storage and hydroelectric generation is pumped-storage
Type of Dam
Earth or rock fill Concrete or masonry Roller compacted concrete Unknown Total
Height (m)
116 174 188 -
Number
174 43 32 1 250
Percentage
69.6 17.2 12.8 0.4 100.0
Table 1. Dams With Geomembrane Waterproofing (ref., ICOLD Bulletin No. 135, 2010)
hydroelectricity. It relies on load balancing for its economy; see Figure 8. The method stores energy in the form of impounded water, pumped from a lower elevation reservoir to one at a higher elevation. Low cost off-peak electric power is used to run the pumps. During periods of high electrical demand, the stored water is released through
Figure 8. Concept and example of pumped-storage method of generating hydroelectricity (compl. U. S. Bureau of Reclamation)
(a) Earth fill dam (b) Concrete dam
(c) Roller compacted concrete dam
Figure 7. Various dam remediation projects (compl. CARPI Tech BV)
radioactive waste. In this regard there is high level radioactive waste (HLRW), transuranic liquid waste (TLW), low level radioactive (LLRW) waste and uranium mill tailings (UMT). The energy levels of HLRW and TLW are generally considered as being such that accelerated degradation of polymeric materials (aka, geosynthetics) will surely occur. That said, LLRW and UMT are clearly candidates for containment and/or encapsulation using geosynthetics. In order to assess the size and scale of such disposal, a survey was
Garware Wall Ropes Ltd
Geosynthetics
conducted and is available as White Paper #18 on the GSI website at www.geosynthetic-institute.org/whitepapers.htm. Included in the summary table are twenty-five UMT sites that are identified consisting of 1893 total acres; thus each site averages about 76 acres in size. The summary table also identifies seven LLRW sites consisting of 1242 total acres; thus each site averages about 177 acres in size. The major geosynthetic applications with respect to UMT and LLRW disposal appear to be as follows: - For new disposal situations complete double lined systems with leak detection are necessary. Thus, geomembranes, geosynthetic clay liners, drainage geocomposites, and geotextiles are all involved. - For both new and remediated disposal situations final covers are necessary; see Figure 9. Included are geomembranes, geosynthetic clay liners, drainage geocomposites, geogrid reinforcement and geosynthetic erosion control systems. - Geomembranes as vertical cutoff walls for lateral confinement of contaminated groundwater seepage. - Geomembranes for lining of disposal boxes containing LLRW such as contaminated equipment, clothing and construction and demolition wastes. Geosynthetics in Renewable Energy Sources As noted in the introduction, relatively recent renewables (wind, solar, biomass, biofuel and geothermal) represent a growing percentage of worldwide energy sources. Accompanying their construction and operations there are many geosynthetic applications which (on a sitespecific basis) appear to be as follows:
- High strength geotextiles and/or geogrids for foundation support and stabilization of concrete footings for wind and solar energy sources. - Mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls and slopes using geosynthetic reinforcement for creating level surfaces for wind and solar energy sources. - All types of geosynthetic erosion control and prevention systems since these recent renewables are invariably under strict public scrutiny. Summary The worldwide energy source situation, as well as in every individual country, is constantly with us influencing our daily lives insofar as cost, environmental appropriateness,
Figure 9. Final cover system over LLRW at a federal disposal site.
- Local paved road widening and reconstruction using geotextiles and/or geogrids for access to these generally remote sites. - Unpaved road construction using geogrids and/or geotextiles leading from the paved roads to the actual construction site. - Portable, and removable, temporary roadways leading from paved roads to the construction site; see Figure 10.
Figure 10. Light and heavy portable access roads (compl. Robusta Mats).
CTM Geosyntetics
Geosynthetics
Geosynthetic Application
Pond Liners Waterproofing liners Contamination barriers Landfill liners Final covers Paved roads Unpaved roads Temporary roads Foundation support MSE walls and slopes Safety systems Drainage materials Protection materials Erosion control Plastic pipe
Oil
Coal
Nat. Gas
Hydro
Nuclear
Renewals
Table 2. Major Geosynthetic Application Areas as Applies to Various Energy Sources
and even politics are concerned. The projections shown in Figure 2 indicate that the topic has no likelihood in abating. With this assumed as a given, the geosynthetics community should focus efforts by being proactive with respect to the various energy sources as applies to federal and state agencies, public advocacy groups, local citizen groups and all related stakeholders. In this regard, the major geosynthetic applications for each energy source appears to be as shown in Table 2.
While there are indeed additional geosynthetic applications that can be envisioned, these are the major areas we have seen to date. In this regard, we should be championing our geosynthetic case histories, materials durability, long term performance, benefit/cost advantages, sustainability enhancement, innovative uses and solutions. We have an outstanding chance to exchange knowledge and experiences of successful utilization of geosynthetics throughout every segment of the energy source landscape.
Lipi Polymers Pvt.Ltd
Geosynthetics
Durability and Long-Term Performance of High Density Polyethylene Geomembranes

D N Arnepalli1 and A A Rejoice2
Assistant Professor Research Scholar Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai
1 2
Population explosion and rapid industrialization have lead to generation of large amount of municipal and industrial solid wastes, which contain high concentrations of toxic contaminants. These wastes pose a great threat to the geoenvironment and challenge to engineers and planners for safe disposal and containment. The disposal of these wastes into the engineered landfills is considered to be most economical and safe. A modern municipal solid waste landfill basal liner system typically consists of layers of natural geomaterials like granular leachate drainage/collection layer and geosynthetic materials like a needle-punched nonwoven geotextile protection layer and geosynthetic composite liner (typically comprising of 1.5 or 2 mm geomembrane and either geosynthetic clay liner or compacted clay liner). The efficiency of the engineered landfill to minimize the contamination of the surrounding geoenvironment depends on durability of the liner materials, particularly geomembrane. Keeping in view of the above, the present study attempts to highlight the various mechanism(s) by which the majority of the polymeric geomembranes degrade and their long-term performance under realistic field conditions.
modern engineered municipal solid waste landfill basal liner system typically consists of, from top to bottom, a granular leachate drainage/collection layer, a needle-punched nonwoven geotextile protection layer, and a geosynthetic composite liner, typically comprising a 1.5 or 2.0mm thick geomembrane, and either a geosynthetic clay liner or compacted clay liner. Further geomembranes are also widely used as a liner material to minimize the leakages from the water reservoir, irrigation canals and tunnels. In addition, these geomembranes are also popularly used as integral part of cover systems of engineered landfills and mine waste deposits to control infiltration of precipitation or ground water. Geomembrane is relatively thin impermeable sheet of polymer used as advective, diffusive barrier (inorganic contaminants) and as a part of the engineered landfill. Typically, geomembranes are made up of poly vinyl chloride, PVC; chlorinated polyethylene, CPE; chlorosulfonated polyethylene, CSPE; ethylene propylene rubber, EPDM; polypropylene, PP; very low density polyethylene, VLDPE; linear low density polyethylene, LLDPE and high density polyethylene, HDPE (Sangam, 2001). Due to their excellent resistance to advective flow and diffusive migration of inorganic contaminants, HDPE geomembranes are extensively used as liner material for engineered landfills
(Rowe et al., 2004; Rowe et al., 2007; Brachman and Gudina, 2008). Majority of the HDPE geomembranes used in landfill engineering consist of approximately 96 to 97.5 percent backbone polyethylene resin, 2 to 3 percent carbon black to impede the ultra violet radiation degradation and 0.5 to 1.0 percent of various additives such as antioxidants and stabilizers to retard the oxidation mechanism by which the geomembrane ages (Koerner, 2005). The factors which influence the longevity of the geosynthetic liners depends on the composition of the polymeric material used for manufacturing, the method of handling and construction technique followed, chemical compatibility and the environmental conditions that may prevail throughout its service life. In view of the above facts previous researchers have conducted both field and simulated laboratory experiments to estimate the service life of geosynthetic liner materials (Suits et al., 2003). In laboratory testing the factors affecting the long-term performance of liners with probable selective degradation mechanism alone were considered but not the synergistic (combined effect of all) degradation phenomena. However, in reality the combination of various potential degradation mechanisms may prevail simultaneously. Many studies highlighted polymer aging, degradation and its impact on the service life of the liner (Grassie
Geosynthetics
et al., 1985; Hsuan and Koerner, 1995; Sangam et al., 2002; Suits et al., 2003; Lodi et al., 2002, 2010; Rowe et al., 2010). Among the possible aging mechanisms, the prolonged exposure to the sunlight i.e., photo degradation, thermal, extraction of additives and oxidation degradation, hydrolysis, biological and radioactive degradation. These mechanisms may damage the polymeric liner material in the form of molecular chain scission, bond breaking, cross linking or the extraction of some ingredients (Koerner, 2005). When geomembrane is used as basal liner of the engineered landfill, majority of the service life it is covered with the waste. However, during construction and operation of the landfill the basal and cover liner systems may get exposed to ultraviolet radiation. Considering all the undesirable variation in properties due to various exposure conditions, it is important to comprehend various degradation mechanisms in geomembranes. With this in view, a brief summary of various degradation mechanism by which the polymer geomembranes ages is presented. Further the present study also aims to highlight the impact of degradation of geomembrane on its service life and the long-term performance under realistic field conditions. Degradation Mechanisms Geomembrane is considered to undergo degradation when there is measurable change in the properties like tensile strength, discoloration, stress crack resistance etc. under the influence of one or more environmental factors (degradations mechanisms) mentioned in the above sections (Hsuan and Koerner, 1998; Rowe et al., 2002, Brachman et al. 2008) These changes are undesirable and such change in properties is called aging of the material. With reference to HDPE geomembrane, degradation occurs due to swelling of the polymer, extraction of the additives/stabilizers, biological and thermal decay of the polymer resin, exposure to the ultra-violet and radioactive radiation, and chemical oxidation of the base polymer (Hsuan and Koerner, 1995; Rowe et al., 2002; Koerner, 2005; Brachman et al., 2002). In view of the above mentioned possible degradation mechanisms by which the polymer geomembranes undergo aging under various environmental conditions, the previous researchers have conducted extensive laboratory and field studies (Hsuan and Guan, 1998; Lodi et al., 2002 and 2010; Rowe and Rimal, 2008 a, b). To aid the reader a brief account of all these studies is presented in the following. Photo Degradation Photo degradation is induced when geomembrane is irradiated by ultra-violet, UV, or visible light. As a consequence of prolonged exposure to UV radiation causes the geomembrane to undergo discoloration, surface stress cracking, brittleness and deterioration in mechanical
characteristics (Guillet, 1972; Fedor and Brennan, 1996; Lodi et al., 2002). In order to impede the photo degradation carbon black is commonly added to polymer structure during its manufacturing process (Rowe et al., 2002; Koerner, 2005). In view of the above, few studies were conducted by the previous researchers to understand the degradation mechanism of geosynthetic material due to the UV radiation in terms of change in its physical appearance and loss of mechanical properties. The discoloration together with formation of the wrinkle may lead to damage of liner material during the operation of the landfill (Rowe et al., 2002; Lodi et al., 2002; Suits et al., 2003; Koerner, 2005). The UV radiation can be classified into three groups/regions: UV-A, i.e., the radiation wavelengths between 315 nm and 400 nm; UV-B i.e., radiation wavelength between 280 nm and 315 nm; UV-C, i.e., radiation wavelengths shorter than 280 nm. The UV-C radiation is completely absorbed by atmospheric ozone layer and other gases present in the lower portion of the stratosphere ( Guillet, 1972; Lodi et al., 2010). However, most of the UV-A radiation reaches the earths surface which is not considered to be harmful to biological life on planet earth (ASTM D7238, 2006). During the exposure of geomembrane to the sunlight it may be subjected UVA radiation, conduction and convection. The radiation, conduction and convection are the different phenomena by which the energy is transmitted by electromagnetic waves, heat transfer by temperature gradient and molecular movement, respectively, to the geomembranes (Koerner, 2005; Lodi et al., 2002 and 2010). Since photo degradation of polymers can cause chain scission and ultimately results in loss of polymer physical and mechanical properties and hence it very much essential to study the behaviour of polymer geomembranes under variable UV exposure conditions. When natural or synthetic materials are exposed to outdoor condition for a longer period of time, it will undergo a wide variety of chemical reactions and physical processes which occur at molecular level and is referred to as weathering (Guillet, 1972). Extensive research has shown that majority of the synthetic macromolecules, used for manufacturing of the polymers, will undergo degradation due to the absorption of ultraviolet radiation when they are exposed to sun light (Guillet, 1972). In view of the above, researchers have developed various traditional weathering tests by exposing the materials to sun light and accelerated test methods by exposing to intense artificial radiations emitted either from the fluorescent UV lamps or xenon arc lamps (Fedor and Brennan, 1996; Jacques, 2000). The accelerated weathering test procedure is basically subjecting specimens to repetitive cycles of radiation and moisture under controlled environmental
Geosynthetics
conditions. The humidity is produced by condensation of water vapour onto test specimen or by spraying demineralised /deionised water. The exposure condition can be varied by selection type of the UV radiation, irradiance level, cycles of the irradiance and moisture, type of moisture exposure, temperature, as illustrated by codal provision of ASTM (ASTM D154, 2006). However the type of degradation mechanisms that prevail in both under natural and artificial lights need to be ascertained and the acceleration factors or scaling laws between these two different exposure conditions to be established. Fedor and Brennan (1996) have conducted weathering test on 15 different polymer samples which were exposed to natural light as well as UV-A radiation of wave length 340 nm. During accelerated weathering test the polymer samples were also subject to three types of exposure cycles. One was light only cycle and the other two were light and condensation cycles at different irradiance levels. The results of the light and moisture exposure cycle under accelerated conditions gave better correlation with the natural weathering results when compared that of light only cycle. With this in view, researchers have focused to understand the correlation between the different degradation mechanisms that may prevail in both natural and accelerated testing methodologies. Jacques (2000) has reviewed both laboratory accelerated and outdoor natural weathering procedures to comprehend the primary environmental and procedural variables involved in the design of weathering test. Further author has emphasized that the technique used for accelerated degradation in a laboratory should include factors such as light, heat and moisture, which eventually influence the aging rate. In addition attempts must be made to develop accelerated weathering test that may closely simulate the end use environmental conditions and anticipated damage to the material under these environmental conditions. The author also provided a brief description of laboratory accelerated testing devices, instrumentation for monitoring and reporting and the various field conditions that may enrich knowledge regarding traditional and accelerated weathering tests. Another appraisal by Suits et al. (2003) brings highlights of various weathering methods and associated benefits and limitations with these methods in assessing the photo degradation of polymer geosynthetic materials. A comparison is made between weathering mechanisms simulated using xenon arc and UV fluorescent weathering chambers. This study suggests radiation from the xenon arc lamp degrades polymer geosynthetic material at a faster rate, which is considered to be aggressive when compared to that happens in real-life scenario, it is appropriate to use the UV fluorescent lamp to conduct accelerated
weathering tests. As the temperature and level of radiant energy play a predominant role in mimicking degradation of polymer when tested under natural and accelerated conditions and hence these parameters required to be maintained similar to those conditions prevailed in the field. When a comparison was made between geotextile and geomembrane in natural weathering test, it was found that in case of geotextile, onset of degradation occurs within 12-24 months but geomembrane will take at least 10 years to start degradation (Suits et al., 2003). In such a scenario, the accelerated outdoor weathering method is preferable to assess the severity of the degradation of high density polyethylene geomembrane, as it will be reduce time required to complete test. The accelerated outdoor weathering method for non metallic material using concentrated natural sunlight is described in ASTM G90 (2010). This method uses Fresnel solar concentrator, FSC, exposure technique to concentrate sunlight onto the sample with an intensity of approximately eight times that of natural sunlight radiation. An acceleration factor can be applied to compare the degradation processes that may have occurred in traditional and outdoor accelerated weathering tests. The results obtained from outdoor accelerated test can be used to find the service life of the polymer geomembranes under specified field conditions. With reference to durability of geosynthetic material when exposed to UV light under natural or accelerated weathering conditions, the variation of mechanical properties have to be evaluated to understand severity of degradation. With this in view, Lodi et al. (2002 and 2010) has studied aging and degradation mechanism of HDPE of 0.8 and 2.5 mm thick and PVC of 1.0 and 2.0 mm thick geomembranes by exposing to different aging conditions like solar radiation, wind, humidity, rain and leachate. The samples were exhumed and tested at regular interval of 6, 12, 18 and 30 months to quantify the severity of the aging of geomembranes by measuring their mechanical properties as per ASTM D638 (2010). Further attempts were made to compare the mechanical properties of the virgin and aged geomembrane samples. The results revealed the fact that, HDPE geomembranes exhibited higher deformations compared to PVC geomembrane under the similar testing conditions and they also found that geomembranes have become stiffer compared with virgin sample. It is also observed that the loss of additives occurred when the HDPE and PVC geomembranes exposed to the leachate. The authors have suggested that the permeability, diffusion and chemical characteristics of the aged geomembranes must be studied to assess the reason for loss of additives upon aging. To elucidate the chemical changes that may take place during aging of various polyethylene sheets (LDPE, LLDPE and
Western Outdoor Structures Pvt Ltd
Geosynthetics
HDPE) Gulmine et al. (2003) have conducted accelerated weathering tests. Prior to the weathering tests samples were prepared by adding the different stabilized such as Inganox 1076 and Weston 399 antioxidants. Accelerated aging tests were conducted by exposing samples to UV and xenon arc radiation by varying exposure time and different temperature cycles such as 40C and 50C. The changes that might have take place due to the weathering were quantified using sophisticated analytical equipments such as differential scanning calorimeter, scanning electron microscopy, FTIR- spectroscopy, and density and hardness measurement devices. The results revealed that an increase in density with time of weathering is ascribed to increase in its crystallinity and cross-linking reaction. A higher value of hardness with aging indicates close packing of polymeric chains at macroscopic scale. The results also indicated the level of resistance to degradation is of order HDPE>LLDPE>LDPE. Further the response of LLDPE and LDPE polymer to natural and accelerated weathering condition with reference to mechanical properties is described by Basfar et al. (2003). When LLDPE and LDPE polymer are used for outdoor applications, additives like UV stabilizer and light stabilizers must be added during manufacturing process to retard the destructive effect of UV radiation. But the presence of excessive UV stabilizers may cause the shortening of service life of the polymer. Basfar et al. (2003) have investigated the UV radiation stability and gamma cross linking of LLDPE and LDPE in view of the greenhouse applications. The authors have prepared 60 m thick thin film of LLDPE and LDPE using various additives like Irganox 1010, Irgafos 168, hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS) and UV absorber i.e., chemiassorb 81. These polyethylene films were subjected to accelerated weathering using xenon arc radiation and natural sun light. Test results indicated significant resistance to accelerated degradation and natural weathering when polyethylene contains HALS as stabilizer. The tensile properties of the polyethylene films irradiated with a gamma source showed progressive cross linking with decrease in tensile properties at higher radiation. Further Martin (2005) has conducted natural weathering study about six years and accelerated weathering test of 20,000 hours on series of geosynthetic materials. The PVC and HDPE based polymer film were tested under natural and accelerated weathering conditions, respectively. The author has validated the energy equivalency method predictions using the experimental results. It is substantiated that 1000 hours of accelerated weathering will result similar level weathering that may happen in 1 year under natural weathering condition. Further attempts are made in the following sections to highlight other possible aging mechanisms, in addition to the photo degradation, that might degrade the polymer geomembrane.
Degradation by Extraction of Additives The long-term performance of geosynthetic material is very much influenced by the additives incorporated during manufacturing process, i.e. antioxidants, UV stabilizers, pigments, plasticizers, fillers (Sangam, 2001; Dominique et al., 2004). Extraction of additives occurs when material is exposed to critical environmental conditions, as illustrated in Fig. 1, due to leaching and volatilization of polymer.
Figure 1. Extraction of additives due to leaching and volatilization (modified from Dominique et al., 2004)
Water and some chemical agents can leach additives from the surface of the geomembrane it may occur if the level of interaction between the additive and solvent is higher than additive and polymer chain. Further extraction follows diffusion of the additive from the bulk of the material to its surface. The rate at which diffusion of an additive in a given polymer resin, is characterized by molecular size of the additive, interaction between additive and polymer chain and polymer morphology and chains mobility. If the additives removed from surface are involved in stabilization process, the level of protection at surface gets altered. This may lead to change in colour, microcracking etc., which depicts the onset of local degradation (Dominique et al., 2004). In case of HDPE geomembrane the additives get removed during extraction process makes the geomembrane vulnerable to degradation agents. This in turn causes onset of oxidation and other degradation mechanisms in geomembrane. This degradation process also increases the brittleness of geomembrane (Sangam, 2001). Thermal Degradation In recent times synthetic polymers have replaced natural materials like wood and traditional construction materials like steel and concrete due to their unique properties. However, the thermal degradation is induced by heat which involves alteration of molecular bond along polymer chains. The different types of bonds found in geosynthetic polymers are carbon-carbon, carbon-hydrogen, carbonchloride etc (Dominique et al., 2004) with specified bond
Geosynthetics
energy. The energy supplied by heat induces vibration at the molecular level and vibration energy reaches the energy of liaison, bond dissociation may occur. This process may lead to chain scission which in turn results in formation of free radicals. The surrounding liaison may react with free radical which will propagate degradation mechanism (Dominique et al., 2004). Thermal stress on polymeric membrane causes chain reorganization processes and variation is related to thermal expansion coefficient of a polymer. In geomembrane, thermal expansion and contraction may lead to a change in overall dimension of panel, creating wrinkles when temperature increases or creating a stress when temperature decreases. Failure due to thermal stress can occur at junction of geomembranes or at welded points during its service life (Dominique et al., 2004). Oxidation Degradation Oxidation is considered to be the most significant degradation mechanism by which polymeric geomembranes loses their physical, chemical and mechanical properties (Hsuan and Koerner, 1995). During the manufacturing process free radical is created, for example oxygen is created while progressive long-term degradation of carbon atoms present in the polyethylene chain. Oxygen, present in the surrounding environment, combines with the free radical to form hydroperoxy free radical, which is passed around in the molecular structure (Sangam et al., 2002; Dominique et al., 2004). Eventually the hydroperoxy free radical reacts with another polymer chain, creating a new free radical and causing chain scission (Dominique et al., 2004), once triggered this reaction is generally get accelerated. Due to the oxidation of the polymer the physical and mechanical properties of geomembrane decrease leading to its failure. In order to retard the oxidation mechanism antioxidants such as hindered amine stabilizers are added to the back bone resin during its manufacturing (Fay et al., 1994 and Hsuan and Koerner, 1998). Hsuan and Koerner (1998) have proposed three-stage conceptual model to depict the oxidation mechanism of HDPE geomembrane, as illustrated in Fig. 2. The first stage (represented as stage A) is the depletion of antioxidants due to the chemical reactions of antioxidants with oxygen (Gedde et al., 1994; Hsuan and Koerner., 1998; Sangam and Rowe., 2002). During this stage the engineering/ mechanical properties of the geomembrane may not change substantially. The second stage of the oxidation mechanism is called the induction time to the onset of the degradation (represented as stage B in Fig. 2). In the initial period of Stage II of oxidation the degradation of the material property starts very slowly and in the final period, the oxidation process accelerates to the point where
the there are measurable changes in the geomembrane properties.
Figure 2. Three stage conceptual chemical aging of HDPE geomembrane (modified from Hsuan and Koerner, 1998)
The third stage (Stage III) involves degradation to failure. In this stage, the oxidation causes significant changes to the physical and mechanical properties which will eventually lead to the failure. When a particular design property such as tensile stress and strain at break reaches a specified value, typically percent of either the initial or the specified value, the failure of geomembrane has occurred. The service life of the HDPE geomembrane i.e., the time required for complete chemical aging of an HDPE geomembrane is the sum of the time to deplete antioxidants, the induction time to the onset of polymer degradation, and the time for degradation of the polymer to decrease its properties to unacceptable levels. Mueller and Jacob (2003) have conducted aging tests using the air and water as aging medium by aging HDPE GMs in hot air oven and water baths and authors have concluded that the service life of the geomembrane is essentially determined by the slow loss of stabilizers due to migration. Sangam and Rowe (2002) have investigated the antioxidant depletion rates of unstressed specimens immersed in air, water and synthetic leachate (at 2285C) and demonstrated that, the antioxidant depletion in leachate is two to four times faster than in water and air. The study also emphasized the importance of realistic chemical exposure conditions for precise estimation of service life of geomembrane. The simple immersion of the GM in a chemical leachate may results in severe exposure conditions and lifetime estimation using these results will be conservative. Hence the effects of leachate composition, simulation of the exposure conditions, GM thickness, and local geomembrane deformations on antioxidant depletion also need to be quantified. Hsuan and Koerner (1995) have conducted a detailed study
Geosynthetics
to find the long-term durability of HDPE geomembrane. The authors have discussed the two different types of aging of the polymer: one is physical aging which involves change in the crystallinity of polymeric material and other one is chemical aging which involves degradation due to breaking of covalent bonds of the polymer chain, which in turn results in decrease of engineering properties of geomembrane such as tensile properties, stress crack resistance etc. Grassie and Scott (1985) have suggested that oxidation is the principal mechanism of chemical aging for HDPE and to halt the oxidation reactions, antioxidants are added during manufacturing to have longer service lives. The authors have also reported that, it is not feasible to measure the length of these stages under actual field conditions, as the time required to obtain useful results to measure the service life is substantially high (centuries). In general laboratory accelerated ageing tests are conducted to assess the service life of the geomembranes, as the time required to complete the aging is quite long under the actual field conditions. With this in view previous researcher have conducted conventional immersion tests on HDPE Geomembranes to evaluate the antioxidant depletion i.e., stage I of oxidation (Hsuan and Koerner, 1998; Sangam et al., 2002; Muller et al., 2003; Rimal et al., 2004; Krushelnitzty, 2006; Rowe et al., 2008a). These tests were conducted by incubating the geomembrane in the medium such as air, water, leachate, acid mine drainage, or jet fuel. Since geomembrane is immersed in medium, sample is exposed to the aging medium on both sides which may not simulate the realistic field condition. The antioxidant depletion rates obtained from these tests is quite high and hence the immersion tests estimates the conservative service lives. Rimal et al. (2004) have conducted laboratory study by immersing fluorinated HDPE and conventional HDPE geomembrane in jet fuel. The authors have demonstrated that the antioxidant depletion rate is slow in fluorinated HDPE when compared to that of conventional HDPE. Since the authors have not considered the synergistic effects which may prevail in the field and hence of these studies need to be validated with those obtained from the field test. Keeping in view of the above constrains, field tests were performed by Rowe et al. (2010) to assess the durability and long-term performance of fluorinated HDPE. For this purpose both conventional and fluorinated
Temperature (C) Range
20 35 50 565 -900 130-190 35-50
geomembranes were buried at the field site on Brevoort Island, the exhumed samples from the site were tested for OIT, crystallinity, MI and tensile properties. When authors compared the predicted service lives using field and laboratory tests results, it is found that the service life of the geomembrane aged under the realistic field conditions is likely to be more than geomembrane aged under simulated laboratory conditions. Koerner and Koerner (2006) have conducted a field study at municipal solid waste, MSW, landfill located north of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. The landfills consist of both dry and wet cells with double composite liner system. The rise of in-situ geomembrane temperature of basal liner and covers at two different cells were monitored using thermocouples for 10.5 years. They have found that wet cell (bioreactor) increased at a higher rate uniformly compared with the increase in dry cell. As this study was focused on MSW landfill, they have suggested that if landfill materials are different, it may behave in a different way. For future studies they have suggested to use thermocouple to monitor geosynthetic material temperature behaviour for life time prediction. In view of the observations made by the previous researchers (Koerner and Koerner, 2006), Rowe et al. (2010) have developed state-of-the-art geosynthetic liner longevity simulator (in short called as GLLS) to perform accelerated laboratory aging tests. The GLLS as illustrated in Fig. 3 is capable of studying the effect of temperature due to the biodegradation of organic waste, high pressure because of the overlain waste and continuous synthetic leachate circulation to simulate operation of the landfill on geomembrane aging. The authors have reported that due to temperature and vertical stress numerous permanent deformations and indentations were evident on all geomembranes tested. It has been observed that, the rate of depletion of antioxidants from the geomembranes when tested in GLLS is quite low when compared to those tested in the traditional leachate immersion aging baths. However it is concluded that the predicted geomembrane service life based on the GLLS test data is more realistic when compared to those prediction made based on conventional leachate/water/air aging baths. Using the results obtained from conventional aging bath and landfill liner simulator tests, Rowe (2005) and Rowe and Rimal
Rowe and Rimal (2008) (years) Range
1145-1830 245-370 65-90
Rowe (2005) (years) Value modelled

730 160 40
Value modelled
1500 245-370 80
Table 1. Estimated service life of 1.5 mm thick HDPE Geomembranes over range of landfill operating temperatures (modified from Rowe and Arnepalli, 2008)
JBA Concrete Solutions
Geosynthetics
(2008) have estimated the service life (as depicted in Table 1) of 1.5 m thick HDPE GMs over wide range of landfill
operating temperatures (Rowe and Arnepalli, 2008. Rowe and Arnepalli (2008) have calculated the leakage rates through a single composite liner, that consist of wrinkled geomembrane with hole in it and underlain by either GCL or CCL, using the equation proposed by Rowe (1988) and the obtained results are presented in Table 2. Long-Term Performance of Polymer Geomembranes Rowe and Arnepalli (2008) have assessed the effect of service life of geomembrane and its long-term performance in terms of contaminant impact on the surrounding geoenvironment using the analytical tool POLLUTEv7 developed by Rowe and Booker (2005). For this purpose authors have considered the model values of the service lives presented in Table 1, the estimated leakage rates illustrated in Table 2. The variation of both inorganic contaminant such as chloride and organic contaminant like benzene was assessed and the same is presented in Figs. 4 and 5.
Figure 3. Cross sectional details of geosynthetic liner longevity simulator (modified from Rowe et al., 2010)
Figure 4. Variation in chloride concentration in the aquifer for different geomembrane service life (modified from Rowe and Arnepalli, 2008)
Figure 5. Variation in benzene concentration in the aquifer for different geomembrane service life (modified from Rowe and Arnepalli, 2008)
Composite liner
Period (years)
Head (m)
Time < GM Service Life

Leakage (lphd) Leakage (m/a) 0.0003 0.0006 0.00075 0.0032 0.0064 0.084
Time > GM Service Life

Leakage (lphd) 1430 2750
4110
Leakage (m/a) 0.052 0.1 0.15 0.011 0.022

0.15
GM and GCL
0-50 50-100 >100
0.03 0.3 7 0.03 0.3 7
8 16 210 90 175 2300
GM and CCL
0-50 50-100 >100
310 610 4110
Table 2. Leakage rates through single composite liner (modified from Rowe and Arnepalli, 2008)
Geosynthetics
It can be observed from the Fig. 4 that if the geomembrane service life is higher than 730 years the chloride leakage through the hole in wrinkles resulted peak concentration of about 280 ppm at about 280 years. On the contrary if the service life of the geomembrane is less than 310 years, the resulting peak impact is quite high as the advective transport mechanism governing the migration chloride through the system. Contaminant transport analysis conducted by the Rowe and Arnepalli (2008) revealed that, if the service life of the geomembrane as short as 40 years resulted maximum contaminant impact of about 3.45 ppb, with the assumed half-life of the benzene as 25 years (as depicted in Fig. 5). If the analysis performed by maintaining the conditions same as above for the half-life of 10 years, the peak concentration would be as small as 1.1 ppb. Concluding The efficiency of the engineered landfill to minimize the contamination of the surrounding geoenvironment depends on durability of the liner materials, particularly geomembrane. Based on the critical evaluation of the literature it is observed that long term performance of the polymer geomembrane is highly depends on type of the polymer used for manufacturing, additives such as antioxidants, stabilizers, plasticizers added and the he environmental conditions to which it get exposed during construction and service life. Present study highlighted various degradation mechanism(s) by which the majority of the polymeric geomembranes ages, which in turn determines service life and long-term performance of the liner materials under realistic environmental conditions. It is observed that oxidation seems to be significant degradation mechanisms by which majority of the HDPE geomembranes ages. Further the removal of additives from the HDPE polymer structure by extraction mechanism increases the brittleness of the geomembrane and makes the geomembrane unprotected from degradation of other mechanisms. It is also noticed that, long term exposure of polymer geomembrane to UV radiation resulted in discoloration, surface cracking, brittleness and deterioration of the mechanical characteristics significantly, which is responsible for inferior performance of high density polyethylene geomembranes. References
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Light Apparatus for UV Exposure of Non-Metallic Materials. G154, West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, USA. - ASTM. (2010). Standard Practice for Performing Accelerated Outdoor Weathering of Non-metallic Material using Concentrated Natural Sunlight. G90, West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, USA. Basfar, Ahmed, A., Idriss, A. K. M., and Mofti, S. M. (2003). UV radiation stability and gamma cross linking of LLDPE and LDPE for greenhouse applications. Polymer Degradation and Stability, 82(3), 229-234. Brachman, R. W. I., and Gudina, S. (2002). A new laboratory apparatus for testing geomembranes under large earth pressures. Proceedings of the 55th Canadian Geotechnical Conference, CGS, Niagara Falls, ON, Canada, 993-1000. Brachman, R. W. I., Rowe, R. K., Arnepalli, D. N., Dickinson, S., Islam, M. Z., and Sabir, A. (2008). Development of an apparatus to simulate the ageing of geomembranes under chemical exposure, elevated temperatures and applied stresses. Proceedings of the GeoAmericas 2008 conference, Cancun, Mexico, 444-451. Brachman, R.W.I., and Gudina, S. (2008). Gravel contacts and geomembrane strains for a GM/CCL composite liner. Geotextiles and Geomembranes, 26(6), 448-459. Dominique, Kay., Eric, Blond., Jacek, Mlynarek. (2004). Geosynthetics Durability: A Polymer Chemistry Issue. 57th Canadian Geotechnical Conference 5th Joint Cgs/Iah-Cnc Conference, Canada, Section 4, 1-14. Fay, J. J., and King, R. E. (1994). Antioxidants for Geosynthetic Resins and Applications in: Geosynthetic Resins, Formulations and Manufacturing. Edited by Hsuan, Y.G. and Koerner, R.M., GRI Conference Series Published by IFIA, St Paul, MN, U.S.A, 77-96. Fedor, G. R. and Brennan, P . J (1996). Comparison between Natural Weathering and Flourscent UV Exposure: UVA- 340 Lamp Test Result. Durability Testing of Non-metallic Material., ASTM STP 1294, 91-105. Gedde, U. W., Viebke, J., Leijstrom, H., and Ifwarson, M. (1994). Long-term properties of hot-water polyolefin pipes: a review. Polymer Engineering and Science., 24(34), 1773 1787. Grassie, N., Scott, G. (1985) Polymer Degradation and Stabilization, Cambridge University Press, 222. Guillet, J.E.,(1972). Fundamental Processes in the UV Degradation and Stabilization of Polymers. Pure and Applied Chemistry, 30, 135-144. Gulmine, J.V., Janissek, P . R., Heise, H. M., and Akcelrud, L. (2003). Degradation profile of polyethylene after artificial accelerated weathering. Polymer Degradation and Stability, 79 (3), 385-397. Hsuan, Y. G. and Guan, Z. (1998). Antioxidant depletion during thermal oxidation of high density polyethylene geomembranes. Proceedings of the 6th International Conference on Geosynthetics, Atlanta, Georgia, 1, 375-380. Hsuan, Y. G. and Koerner, R. M. (1995). Long-term Durability of HDPE Geomembrane. Part 1: Depletion of Antioxidant, GRI
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Nina Concrete Systems Pvt.Ltd
Geosynthetics
Report 16, Geosynthetic Research Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia. - Hsuan, Y. G. and Koerner, R. M. (1998). Antioxidant depletion lifetime in high density polyethylene geomembranes. Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering, 124(6), 532541. Jacques, L.F.E. (2000). Accelerated and outdoor/natural exposure testing of coatings. Progress in Polymer Science, Volume 25, 1337-1362. Koerner G. R and Koerner R. M. (2006). Long- Temperature Monitoring of Geomembranes at Dry and Wet Landfills. Geotextile and Geomembrane, Volume 24, 72-77. Koerner, R.M. (2005) Designing with Geosynthetics, 5th Edition, Prentice-Hall, N.J. Krushelnitzty, R. P . (2006). Investigation of physical, temperature, and chemical effects on the short-term and longterm performance of high-density polyethylene pipe. Ph.D. thesis, Queens University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada. Lodi. P . C and Bueno. B. S. (2002). Analysis of Aging and Degradation of HDPE and PVC Geomembrane. Geosynthetics- 7th International Conference on Geosynthetics, Dalmas Gourd & Girard (eds), 523526. Lodi. P . C, Zornberg, J.G and Bueno. B. S. (2010). UV Degradation of HDPE and PVC Geomembranes in the Laboratory Exposure. Geosynthetics- 9th International Conference on Geosynthetics, Brazil 2010, 821824. Martin, D (2005). UV Resistance in the Film Geomembranes Accelerated and Natural Weathering Studies. GSP 142 Waste Containment and Remediation ASCE. Mller, W. and Jacob, I. (2003). Oxidative resistance of high density polyethylene geomembranes. Polymer Degradation and Stability, 79(1), 161172. Rimal, S., Rowe, R. K., and Hansen, S. (2004). Durability of geomembrane exposed to jet fuel a-1. Proceedings of the 57th Canadian Geotechnical Conference, Quebec City, session 5D, 13-19. Rowe, R. K., and Sangam, H. P . (2002). Durability of HDPE geomembrane. Geotextiles and Geomembranes, Vol. 20, 7775. Rowe, R. K., Islam, M. Z., Brachman, R. W. I., Arnepalli D. N., and Ewais, A. Ragab., (2010). Antioxidant Depletion from a High Density Polyethylene Geomembrane under Simulated Landfill Condition.Journal of Geotechnical and
Geoenvironmental Engineering., ASCE, 136(7), 930-939. - Rowe, R. K., and Arnepalli D. N. (2008). Theme Lecture: Modelling the Effects of Aging of Geomembranes on Contaminant Transport and the Long-Term Performance of Landfill Composite Liners. The 12th International Conference of International Association for Computer Methods and Advances in Geomechanics (IACMAG), Goa. Rowe, R. K., and Arnepalli D. N. (2008). The Effects of Landfill Temperature on the Contaminant Transport Through a Composite Liner. The 12th International Conference of International Association for Computer Methods and Advances in Geomechanics (IACMAG), Goa. Rowe, R. K., Mukunoki, T., Bathurst, R. J., Rimal, S., Hurst, P ., and Hansen, S. (2007). Performance of a geocomposite liner for containing Jet A-1 spill in an extreme environment. Geotextiles and Geomembranes, 25(2), 68-77. Rowe, R. K., Quigley, R. M., Brachman, R. W. I., and Booker, J. R. (2004). Barrier Systems for Waste Disposal Facilities, 2nd Ed., E & FN Spon, London. Rowe, R.K. and Rimal, S. (2008a). Depletion of antioxidants from an HDPE geomembrane in a composite liner. Journal Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering, 134(1), 6878. Rowe, R.K. and Rimal, S. (2008b). Ageing of HDPE geomembrane in three composite landfill liner configurations. Journal Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering, 134(7), 906-916. Sangam, H. P . (2001). Performance of HDPE geomembrane liners in landfill applications. Ph.D. Thesis, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada. Sangam, H. P . and Rowe, R. K. (2002). Effects of exposure conditions on the depletion of antioxidants from highdensity polyethylene (HDPE) geomembranes. Canadian Geotechnical Journal. 30(2), 1221-1230. Suits, L. David and Hsuan, Y. Grace (2003). Assessing the Photo-degradation of Geosynthetics by Outdoor Exposure and Laboratory Weatherometer. Geotextile and Geomembrane, Vol. 21, 111 - 122.
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Publishers Note: This paper was presented during the One day conference on Geosynthetic Lining Solutions and Related Issues by ASCE IS SR in association with Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, Indian Chapter of International Geosynthetic Society, New Delhi, Karnataka Geotechnical Center of Indian Geotechnical Cociety, Bengaluru, The Masterbuilder at IISc, Bengaluru, Karnataka on 25th February 2012.
Happenstance Engineering Pvt.Ltd
Geosynthetics
Geogrid Reinforced Basal Foundation for Soft Soil Stabilisation
Som S. Sarkar, Chairman, ENVIROGEO Group, New Delhi, India
fficient and vast highway infrastructure needs construction of highways through various terrains, most often through soft compressible strata e.g. marshy land or through backwaters. Construction of highways on such strata by conventional methods results in huge filling of expensive granular fill sinking progressively till a working platform emerges to suitable formation level. Even then the fill give rise to unacceptable settlements leading to damages to the road surface resulting in poor riding quality, which require
frequent maintenance. Use of methods such as stone columns, sand drain etc., are time consuming and uneconomical. Methods of stabilization of soil by addition of stabilizers are usually not adopted due to it's inherent uncertainty to control moisture and difficulty in designing them. Normal unbound aggregate sinks rapidly on application of load, since the sub-grade accepts the load distribution without being able to mobilize sub-grade reaction. This result in sinking and mixing of subgrade, induce heavy surface deformation and rutting.
The stability of foundation under an embankment or superstructure soil mass is governed mostly by the availability of shearing resistance of the foundation soil. Therefore based on imposed contact pressure, the founding layer poses a problem of bearing capacity. Geogrid reinforcement thus may be placed at the interface to prevent a shear failure for both in embankment fill as well as in foundation soil, wherein reduction of settlement comes as next consideration. The aspect of permeability plays the most important role during loading (the period of construction).
SUBGRADE STRESS BELOW TRANSIENT LOAD
PAVEMENT
CYCLIC WAVE BASED DEFORMATION
SLAB BEFORE BENDING LATERAL STRAIN AT BOTTOM LAYER GEOGRID AS TENSILE INCLUSION
SLAB AFTER BENDING
PARTICLE MOVEMENT DUE TO WHEEL LOAD
Plane bending of pavement and induced stress due to cyclic traffic load on road pavement. Geogrid interlocks the basal aggregates and prevent lateral movement, providing confinement for soil reinforcement
Unreinforced sub base leads to loss of basal layer due to cyclic loading, resulting in rutting and deformation of unbound pavement
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Geosynthetics
To reduce deformation of unbound pavement, and stress on founding layer higher pavement thickness is required, unlike geogrid reinforced basal layer
The gain in shearing resistance during the process of consolidation adds to the process of stability. Geogrid reinforcement is used in the foundation substructure to enhance the resistance of the founding layer to avoid failure through excessive deformation or shear in founding layers. While basal reinforcement stabilises an embankment over soft ground by preventing lateral spreading of the contained fill, extrusion
of founding layers of soil beneath and overall rotational and local shear failure. Stabilisation is achieved by generating resistive force in Geogrid reinforcement by shear stresses transmitted fro foundation fill, through integrally jointed junction of the Geogrid, which places the reinforcement in tension. The main reason for the cracking and large settlement in pavements, particularly over soft soil foundation, is high stress concentration below the wheel load as shown above. Differential settlement caused by pavement failure is illustrated above, where the action of wheel load is shown to create an oscillatory pulse of sway at the bottom of pavement inducing tensile forces and tension cracks. High transient cyclic stress develops below the wheel load, which forces the particles in bottom layers away from each other. This lateral sway allows pumping of fines from the compressible clayey sub grade, and loose aggregates slowly sink into the void created by the migration of fines. The pavement thickness reduces slowly and deformation increases heterogeneously depending on sub-grade strength and loading conditions. Ruts and potholes appear on surface apart from cracks
etc. The solution is to provide a tensile inclusion of an integrally jointed HDPE Biaxial Geogrid placed as reinforcement cum separator. Inclusion of Geogrid reinforcement distributes the load uniformly over a larger area resulting in development of low stress at sub grade level hence induces far less settlement. Also Geogrid act as a separator and prevent sinking of pavement by interlocking the particles within its aperture. With enhanced stiffness the Geogrid provides effective confinement to the pavement particle sway, which has direct influence to reduce vertical permanent strain. Geogrid need Integral joint, Stiffness & Dimensional stability to functions as reinforcement A Geogrid is a planar structure
Biaxial geogrid interlocks basal layers and provides essential confinement for soil reinforcing action load trasfer
Principle of soil reinforcement is well demonstrated by stability of pyramid formed using stacked frictionless spheres, when confined in base
Integrally jointed PP Biaxial geogrid can provide soil interlocking
Geosynthetics
Geogrid reinforced embankment on soft soil
Geogrid reinforced RE wall on soft soil
Geogrid reinforced Pier foundation on soft soil
Geogrid layers
Geogrid & Geotextile layers
Strengthening and widening of existing highways
Strengthening and widening of existing runways /taxi tracks
Rehabilitation of old railway embankment
Stabilization of new railway embankment
formed by a regular network of tensile elements with apertures of sufficient size to allow interlocking with surrounding soil, rock earth. They are also characterized by high dimensional stability, high strength and high tensile modulus at very low elongation (achieved by patented processes of orientation of polymer molecules). They are of two varieties, viz., uni-axially oriented and bi-axially oriented with enhanced strength in one or both the directions. They are primarily used for soil reinforcement. Biaxial Geogrids are used under pavement as stresses are biaxial in nature in Boussinesq type load distribution. MoRth highways specification of Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, in India, (4th Edition), for Geosynthetics in Cl:701.2.2 defines Geogrid properties as: Geogrid shall be made from integrally jointed mono or bi-directionally orientated or stretched mesh made from polyethylene or polypropylene or Polyester or similar polymer, with high secant modulus, is square, rectangular, hexagonal or oval mesh form. Their junction strength shall be high with high creep resistance, and dimensional
stability. Their open structure shall permit effective interlocking with soil, aggregates, rock etc., they shall be used as a tensile member or reinforcement Therefore just any grid look-alike products are not capable to function as Geogrid, (examples: Geonets, coated or uncoated Woven or Knitted textiles using fibrillated mesh/fabrics, fused Tape-form mesh elements etc). Use of these can lead to serious consequences since they don't conform to soil Geogrid interaction requirements defined above as well as in BS 8006. These are disqualified for use as Geogrid, as they lack integral joint, and have poor junction strength, which lead to failure of interlocking of the soil, thereby fail to confine soil particles needed to transfer load from soil to Geogrids. Ground Improvement using Integrally jointed Geogrids The construction of highways over poor soil exerts high bearing pressure over the soil strata. Such constructions require improvement of foundation soil strata and bearing capacity. Improvement of soil strata using Geosynthetics is done by use of layers of Bi-oriented
Geogrids. Use of polymer Geosynthetics for ground stabilization provides long term and durable solution. The oriented Geogrids are inert to chemical and biological agents. Their use allows both economy and rapid construction. Usually the earth filling volume is directly dependent on strength of subgrade. Enormous volume of earth fill is required if the usual marshy terrain needs to be developed as a working platform for a proposed expressway. The typical conventional increase in requirement of aggregate sub-layer due to changing CBR is shown below. It may be noted that for low CBR the requirement can be very high, depending upon available boundary condition of fill. The foundation soil is improved by using layers of Bi-oriented Geogrid to the required depth and compacting soil over it in layers. This result in additional confinement of the base soil while taking shear stresses developed in the soil, thereby increasing the bearing capacity. Use of Geogrid reduces requirement of sub-base thickness by 40-50% and is a proven and accepted practice in highway construction worldwide. Integrally jointed biaxial oriented
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Universal Construction Machinery Equipment Ltd
Geosynthetics
Geogrids are high strength planar polymer materials which impart strength to soil mass with its interlocking action with the soil particles. Installation of layers of Geogrids within the bearing soil mass or Geocell mattress improves soil load bearing capacity. The treatment can even be used to improve the bearing capacity of soft compressible soils such as marshy land or soft compressible clay (Black Cotton soils). HDPE/PP integrally jointed Geogrids as ideal soil reinforcement HDPE/PP Geogrids were developed since early 70's and have a long development history. Current technology is extremely advanced with decades of research and evaluation, building user confidence. They are used as long term soil reinforcement in innumerable structures for last 40 years and standardized all over the world, including ASTM, BS 8006-1995 & FHWA. HDPE/PP extruded punched sheet, integrally jointed Geogrids conforms to the true definition of Geogrids, providing ideal junction strength, dimensional stability, oval aperture for optimum interlocking, connection strength for Geogrid continuity and load transfer from soil to grid, long term design strength and service life of 120 yrs. The design of Reinforced soil walls for highways require to meet MoRTH specification in India, meeting provisions of BS 8006:1995 and FHWA with seismic load considerations. Integrally jointed Bi-axially oriented Geogrids when laid in the layers is proven to improve the performance of the of foundation soil through three mechanisms: - Interlocking & Confinement of soil composite (imparts pseudocohesive load transfer) - Wider load distribution through reinforced aggregate basal layer - Tensioned Membrane Effect (which absorbs tensile stresses) The phenomenon of interlocking of the soil particles into the apertures of the Geogrid also reduces degradation
of the mechanical properties of the aggregate and prevents lateral displacement of the soil particles, thereby increasing the overall stiffness of the foundation layer. When a proposed embankment is to be built over soft soil ( CBR<5), passes through marshy waterlogged terrain, swamps mudflats or overlying compressible substratum with poor ground condition, for construction of Access roads, highways or Hardstand for large loading area, following problems are encountered: 1. Marshy soft ground condition, accumulation of water-logging causes difficulty in initiation of construction of embankment and access road. Unavailability of initial sub-grade strength initiates rapid deterioration of embankment bed materials, large scale deformation and sinking of valuable fill materials transported from far away sources. 2. Embankment fails due to flexural deformation of base and tension crack on embankment formation, sinking and loss of bed materials. 3. To ensure adequate stiffness, conventional embankment needs higher embankment thickness to ensure adequate modulus for controlled overlying pavement deformation, which is counter productive since higher the overburden, the embankment becomes more unstable. The deformation increases with time. 4. Available soil for filling in embankment give rise to poor drainage characteristics. With use of poor characteristic fill soil the embankment becomes uneven, prone to differential settlement and heaving. Construction of toe wall becomes essential for stability of embankment. Applications in India, performing over 12 years PWD Maharashtra took the pioneering effort as early as 1995, for strengthening and widening state highways in various stretches using biaxial integrally joined Geogrids and
Nonwoven Geotextiles for ground improvement over soft soil and black cotton compressible stratum. 12 projects were implemented between 1995-2000, where (i) surface deformation, (ii) rutting (iii) Cracking of asphaltic overlay (iv) Loss of shear strength due to high water table and water logging were observed. Integrally joined Polypropylene Biaxial geogrids of strength 20x20 kN/m and 30x 30 kN/m, having 90% junction strength were used in these applications, some supported by 150 gsm Nonwoven PP geotextile for prevention of surface cracks in asphaltic overlay. Results in these state highway stretches are extremely satisfactory, where no further distress were reported. Some of the case details are shown in enclosed showcase. Conclusion The property of interlocking is the key to eminent load transfer of soil directly to lateral strands, leading to soil confinement. Though other forms of knitted or woven mesh form provide frictional interaction between soil and reinforcement, lack of interlocking (due to poor junction strength) does not enable these materials to impart soil confinement. In the light of above it amply explains why knitted mesh without junction strength cannot provide lateral confinement of soil and therefore does not perform as biaxial soil reinforcement. The future of application in pavement /fill strengthening in India is very promising. With rapid development of large scale modern highways, Railway freight corridors, High speed railway tracks, new airfield pavements, Basal reinforcement would be prominently used to huge economic advantage. Need of the hour is for the planners, project authorities and consultants to come forward to use this proven technology with confidence. Needless to mention that caution is required to understand characteristic properties and not mere claims from the manufacturers.
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United Steel & Structurals Pvt. Ltd
Geosynthetics
Case Histories of Highwaystrengthening, Wideing and Overlay Reinforcement using Envirogeo Integral Polypropylene Geogrid System Technology
Maharashtra P .W.D. Malharpeth Pandharpur Road (sh-78)
Project: Location: Project Designer: Contractor: Geosynthetic Malharpeth-Pandharpur Road (SH-78), KM 6/200 KM6/600 & KM27/00-28/00,LYOVER,NEW DELHI Maharastra Public Works Department Som Sarkar & Associates, New Delhi M/s Afcons Infrastructure Limited Non-Woven Geotextile BIAXIAL GEOGRID,20X20 kN BIAXIAL GEOGRID,40X40kN Project: Location: Owner: Project designer: Geosynthetic
Improvement & Strengthening of Road ,tembhuri Maharashtra

Karmala-Nagar-Tembhurni Road Karmala-Nagar-Tembhurni Road (SH 141 KM 131/475-134/600) Solapur Region Public Works Department, Maharastra Som Sarkar & Associates, New Delhi Non-Woven Geotextile BIAXIAL GEOGRID(ASPHALT) 20 X20 KN/M, BIAXIAL GEOGRID 20 X 20 KN/M
Strengthening and Widening of Existing Mouda - Ramtek Road

Location: Mouda - Ramtek Road ( SH-253, from km 7/000 to 12/000), Maharastra, India Maharastra Public Works Department Som Sarkar & Associates, New Delhi M/s Jai Construction Non-Woven Geotextile BIAXIAL GEOGRID 20 X 20 KN/M
Overlay Against Reflection & Fatigue Cracking, Nagpur

Location: Owner: Project designer: Geosynthetic products used: Nagpur NH Division, PWD, Nagpur Region Som Sarkar & Associates Non-woven Geotextile BIAXIAL GEOGRID 20 X 20 KN/M BIAXIAL GEOGRID(ASPHALT) 20 X20 KN/M
Owner Project designer Contractor: Geosynthetic products used
Strengthening of Nagpur-hyderabad National Highway (nh-7) Strengthening, Widening & Improvement Khapa-parseoni
Location: Owner: Project designer: Client : Contractor: Products used Khapa-Parseoni Road (from km 10/000 TO 20/000),Maharastra, India Maharastra Public Works Department Som Sarkar & Associates, New Delhi Maharastra Public Works Department M/s Unique Engineers Geosyntheti Non-Woven Geotextile BIAXIAL GEOGRID 20 X 20 KN/M Location: Owner: Project designer: Contractor: Geosynthetic products used: Km 72/000 to 80/000 on Nagpur-Hyderabad section of NH-7, Maharashtra State, National Highways Division No. 13, Nagpur Som Sarkar & Associates Jai Construction, Nagpur Non- Woven Geotextile Bi-Oriented Geogrids

Enviro Geosynthetics Pvt. Ltd.
1401- 1410, DLF Galleria, DLF City Ph-IV, Gurgaon-122002. Ph: 0124-5050615-616, Fax: 0124-5050617 E-mail: admin@envirogeo.com, Web: www.envirogeo.com
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Unisteel Engineering Works
Geosynthetics Industry Analysis
ENVIRONMENTAL
M.K. Prabhakar, Associate Editor
SECURITY & ECONOMICS
To Drive New Phase in India's Demand for Geosynthetics
he growth of the geosynthetics industry in India can be counted among the key indicators of a rapidly evolving market that is embracing a series of new technologies and concepts with respect to construction. While geosynthetics have been in existence for well over five decades, it is only in the 1990s that they began to make an increasing appearance on the Indian horizon. With the country being in the midst of its biggest ever construction spree which is expected to spill over to a good part of the next
decade, geosynthetics have got a crucial role to play in India. In an environment where land is becoming a scarce commodity and where environment protection guidelines are evolving, quite rapidly at that, geosynthetics have come as a boon. In fact, the Indian market is expected to be an important one in the near future, where the global demand for geosynthetics is expected to rise to over 7 billion square meters in a few years time. Another important reason for the growth of the geosynthetics industry in
the country has been the increased e m p h a s i s o n s u s t a i n a b i l i t y. Geosynthetics help in improving longterm environmental security, across various sectors including road building, hazardous and municipal solid waste landfills, wall reinforcement, etc. With the country emerging as a key market, it is not surprising that several global players are eyeing entering the market with their latest product offerings. With the government having announced a slew of reforms, which could directly impact the pace of infra-
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structure development, it won't be a surprise if the demand for geosynthetics were to increase rapidly over the duration of the current 12th Five Year Plan period (2012-17). Buoyant Outlook Some of the focus areas for geosynthetics manufacturers in the country , given the continued emphasis on infrastructure development include areas such as railway trackbed stabilization, drainage of roads, airports and railway tracks, reinforced soil retaining structures for approaches to flyovers, road over rail bridges, underpasses and bridges, development of residential and commercial sites, coastal protection, gabion retaining walls, construction of road and rail embankments on weak ground, etc, to mention only some. The anticipated impetus to highway projects alone, with the government targeting to award over 9,000 km of roads, could mean a major boost to the industry. In fact, with a highway network density of about 0.66 km of road per every square kilometer of land, one of the highest in the world, highway projects and pavement restoration works offers a huge opportunity for geosynthetics suppliers. The growth of the geosynthetic industry is in a way a pointer to a rapidly evolving market, where price alone is
Manufacturers are focusing on providing comprehensive turnkey solutions since Geosynthetics is a highly specialized area
The Indian geo-synthetic industry is becoming more and more solution oriented; which means that clients are increasingly looking for turnkey solutions and not just products
Tiru Kulkarni
Vice President-Geosynthetics Division, Garware -Wall Ropes Ltd
not the driving factor, as it was till about the turn of this century. Intense competition has meant that manufacturers are trying to deliver a value proposition rather than just a mere product. Pointing out to the changing trends, Mr.Tiru Kulkarni, Vice President- Geosynthetics Division , Garware -Wall Ropes Ltd, a leading name in fray, noted, The Indian geo-synthetic industry is becoming more and more solution oriented; which means that clients are increasingly looking for turnkey solutions and not products. Manufacturers are optimistic about the outlook for the geosynthetics industry. Highlighting the potential of the Indian market, Mrs.Madhusmita Swain, Managing Director, Maharshee Geomembrane (India) Pvt Ltd, another leading name in the industry quipped, Economic stability in India has boosted demand for more roads, railways, highways, bridges, canals, and dams. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) projects a 20 percent increase in the geosynthetics sector based on the boom. Sharing his views on the trends in the market, Mr.Rajeev Agarwal, Managing Director, GeoSys India Infrastructures Pvt Ltd, another popular name in the industry said, In the current scenario geosynthetics is being used more in highways rather than buildings. As far as infrastructure projects are concerned, geosynthetics products have made
their mark in the industry and proven their ability to perform well in situations. The increase in scale of infrastructure projects, especially with respect to highway, airport, and irrigation projects is expected to further propel the growth of the geosynthetics industry in India in the near future. However, the fact remains that whatever market potential has been tapped is only the tip of the iceberg. There are many in the industry who feel that the growth rate of the industry has not been up to the mark. In fact, India is estimated to consume less than 1.5% of
Economic stability in India has boosted demand for more roads, railways, highways, bridges, canals and dams. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) projects a 20 percent increase in the geosynthetics sector based on the boom
Madhusmita Swain
Managing Director, Maharshee Geomembrane (India) Pvt.Ltd.
the total global geosynthetics production. Dwelling on this point, Mr.G.Praveen Kumar, Managing Director, Gorantla Geosynthetics Pvt Ltd, another manufacturer that has made its mark remarked, The potential is high but still the progress is slow and not up to the actual potential due to lack of awareness, whether it is the consultants, civil engineering firms, institutions etc. However, when compared to five years back the market has reached
The potential is high but still the progress is slow and not up to the actual potential due to lack of awareness, whether it is the consultants, civil engineering firms, institutions etc. However, when compared to five years back the market has reached far but not to its true potential
While it has still got a lot of catching up to do with countries such as neighbouring China, India nonetheless is considered a key emerging market for geosynthetics globally
G. Praveen Kumar
Managing Director, Gorantla Geosynthetics Pvt. Ltd.
ones, one area which has seen rapid growth in recent times has been the use of geosynthetic solutions in the case of landfills. Hazardous and municipal waste landfills are something that a country like India has to deal with in increasing number in recent times. Thanks to geosynthetics though, civic authorities around the country can heave a sigh of relief. A variety of geosynthetic products are used for design of both base and cover liner systems of landfill
facilities. For example, geomembranes are used as barriers to gases, liquids and vapours, while geotextiles are used as a protection against puncture of the geomembranes. Similarly, geogrids are used for reinforcing soil over the geomembranes. Geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) made up of bentonite are used as infiltration barriers. Geopipes and geocomposites are some other types that are used for rapid drainage of leachate. Use of geosynthetics for
far but not to its true potential. The message that geosynthetics can help in faster completion of projects, while adhering to strict quality standards and at the same time can help in bringing down costs, is gradually percolating down is good news for manufacturers. With only a fraction of the market being tapped till now, the enormous potential at stake is what makes the Indian geosynthetics market among the most watched and sought ones. Emerging Key Avenue While the use of geosynthetic components spans a wide variety of applications such as, subsurface drainage, roads, reinforced embankments, retaining walls, and pavement restoration, to mention only a few important
Coastal protection using geosynthetics is a fast growing market
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Supreme Petrochem Ltd
landfills is one area which has got tremendous growth potential in country given the rapid pace of industrialization and urbanization of India. Value Additions to the Fore Just as in the case with other areas in the construction industry, customer has been the biggest gainer due to the intensifying competition in geosynthetics. A wider choice of products and services is now available to the customer. This apart, companies are focusing on delivering value additions in order to garner their share of the market. The focus is on offering 'hand holding' assistance right from the stage of analyzing the problem at a particular site to recommendation of the right solution and the ultimate implementation stage. A good example of a company offering a wide range of geosynthetic products and services is that of CTM Geosynthetics. Among the company's offerings are Geogrids from a new generation of high tenacity polyester yarn, which are woven and online PVC coated and specially designed for demanding soil applications. According to Mr.Amit Agarwal, Director of the
Geogrids in particular are being used in a large scale on infrastructure highway projects in India. Keeping that in mind we at CTM decided to offer a world class product in India comparable to the best of the west
Amit Agarwal
Director, CTM Geosynthetics
company, Geogrids in particular are being used in a large scale on infrastructure highway projects in India. Keeping that in mind we at CTM decided to offer a world class product in India comparable to the best of the west. From among its product range while CTM Geogrid Uniaxial is a polyester geogrid which is suitable for applications requiring strength in one
direction such as reinforced soil walls, steep slopes and veneer reinforcements, etc, CTM Geogrid Biaxial is polyester geogrid suitable for application where strength in both direction is important such as reinforcement of granular road base and sub-base, area stabilization, track bed stabilization, etc. Further going into details of their products, Mr.Amit Agarwal added that the polyester yarn used by the company in its geogrid is a super high tenacity polyester yarn having a high molecular weight and a low Carboxyl end group (CEG) value. The net result of these properties results in a geogrid that is having a low creep values as well as being highly durable with high strength values. Another company that offers a range of geosynthetic products and services is Geosys India Infrastructure (Pvt) Ltd. The company is executing RE wall projects on turnkey basis for prestigious NHAI four-laning BOT stretches. The company is also associated with the country's largest airport project in Delhi. Its expertise spans across areas including, landfills, to highway projects to land reclamation and airport projects. Its product portfolio includes, warpknitted polyester geogrids, non-woven needle punched polypropylene geotextiles, coir & jute geotextiles and erosion control mats, geomembrane liners for landfills and gabions, to mention only a few. One more leading name that is offering a wide range of geosynthetic products and solutions is Enviro Geosynthetics Pvt Ltd. The company's areas of specialized expertise includes, retaining walls, slope stabilization , soft soil stabilization, drainage solutions, asphalt reinforcement, erosion control of slopes, lining technologies including canal lining and waste management, among others. Its product range includes integrally jointed & oriented HDPE/PP Geogrids, knitted polyester textiles, knitted technical textiles, knitted geocomposites, non-woven geotextiles, geonets, HDPE/PP geomembrane,
Project Name: GMR Chattisgarh Power Project Implementationof Maharshee Geomembrane (Smooth & Texture) & Geotextile in Water Rerservoir & Ashdyke Pond
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geocell and basal mattresses, etc, to mention only some. Product Innovation Companies are increasingly focusing on product innovation and technology in a market that is rapidly evolving from being a price conscious one to a quality conscious one. Several new products with their distinct advantages are now available in the market. A good example is the three-layered blown film geomembrane on offer from Maharshee Geomembrane (India) Pvt Ltd. According to the company there is no chance of pin holes in the geomembrane which prevents 100 % seepage of water. The three layers enable excellent properties like tensile strength for long durability and excellent elongation as compared to single layer. The geomembrane also scores on aspects such as puncture resistance and ESCR. The company offers a 5 years guarantee for the product if it is used in exposed condition and 20 years in case of buried condition. Manufacturers have been focusing on accurate problem analysis for recommending the right geosynthetic solution, using a variety of tests and equipment for the process. Third party testing of products is also becoming com-
In the current scenario geosynthetics is being used more in highways rather than buildings. As far as infrastructure projects are concerned, geosynthetics products have made their mark in the industry and proven their ability to perform well in situations
Rajeev Agarwal
Managing Director, GeoSys India Infrastructures Pvt Ltd
monplace in the Indian market. Gorantla Geosynthetics Pvt Ltd, for example is a company, whose products are based on the client's requirements tested at third party testing laboratories like CIPET, Shriram Institute, BTRA, BICS and TRI, etc, which specialize in geosynthetic testing. According to the company, a lot of onsite testing is done at the time of installation of
geosynthetics such as, geomembrane air-pressure testing for checking leakages, tension meter for checking seam and peel strength of the welding and vacuum box for testing the leaking of patch works. One of the key areas of specialization of the company is municipal and hazardous solid waste landfills, with it having already successfully executed several projects across the country. Geosynthetic manufacturers are now getting involved right from the problem referral phase. Garware- Wall Ropes Ltd, for instance undertakes a series of steps for arriving at the correct geosynthetic solution. The initial site visit to understand the genesis of the problem is followed by proposition of a broad techno-commercial solution for the problem. The next step involves liaising with the client to understand their priorities and constraints vis--vis the solution proposed followed by fine tuning of the solution to fit in with their needs. This is followed by execution of the solution which involves conduct of site audits by the company's technical team to ensure that on site quality is maintained as per design codes and standards of practice. Surmounting Challenges The Key While there is no denying the fact that India is counted among the key markets for geosynthetics, there is still however, a long way to go, before it catches up with some of the developed countries. The Indian market is fast evolving, thanks to the increased levels of awareness about geosynthetics. However, there are challenges that the industry has to surmount in order to grow at a faster rate. Lack of adequate awareness is one point that is reiterated again and again by manufacturers. Going into details as to how lack of awareness can impact the industry, Mr.G.Praveen Kumar, Managing Director, Gorantla Geosynthetics mentioned, Due to lack of awareness several clients make wrong decisions without understanding the importance of the technical parameters and its per-
GeoSys India's expertise in ground improvement at work in Kolkata International Airport.
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Asons Enterprise
The road ahead: with infrastructure projects expected to pick up steam soon suppliers can look forward to good times in the near future
formance which is a very important factor for long term performance of the project. Suppliers are also optimistic about the scenario improving in the near future. China is often quoted as an example for a country where the geosynthetics industry has overcome such challenges and is now the world's largest market. Giving an insight into the similarities between India and China and the potential that exists here, Mr.Tiru Kulkarni, Vice PresidentGeosynthetics, Garware-Wall Ropes Ltd, said, If we benchmark ourselves against China which has a similar topography and problems, we lag immensely in the speed of execution. The breadth and depth of geo-synthetic usage in China is many times more than in our country. Even considering the difference in socio, economic and political systems, geosynthetic usage in India should be much higher than what it is now, a statement that most of the industry analysts would agree to unhesitatingly.Highlighting what needs to be done, Mr.Rajeev Agarwal, Managing Director of GeoSys India pointed out that, Though the market is growing
for geosynthetics but as far as India is concerned, our codes and practice books need to be amended which can guide us on the appropriate methods of design and use of geosynthetics in the Indian context. What manufacturers also unanimously agree is for the industry to come together for increasing awareness levels about geosynthetics. Going into details on what needs to be done, Mrs.Madhumita Swain, Managing Director, Maharshee Geomebrane observed, The industry's foremost geotechnical experts will have to present an array of short courses, panel discussions, technical papers and plenary lectures for overcoming the challenges. With an increasing number of players entering the fray, positive changes on the lines of increase in awareness levels is expected to happen sooner than later in the geosynthetics industry. The lack of guidelines and the fact that the use of geosynthetics for particular applications is not mandatory in the country is what is making the Indian market grow at a relatively slower rate,
than say neightbouring China, according to almost every leading industry analyst. The strong growth in China has been enabled since the use of geosynthetics has been made mandatory in a vast majority of government controlled projects in the country, something that is not the case with India. However, on an optimistic note, almost every leading manufacturer is hopeful that the turning point is around the corner. With continued emphasis on infrastructure development, and the rising emphasis on sustainability, guidelines pertaining to the usage of geosynthetics are expected sooner than later. Adding to the attractiveness of geosynthetics is the fact that they can help contractors save on project costs. The recent spate of announcements with respect to reforms in the economy has already got the industry buzzing with anticipation. With fund inflow expected to increase there are indications that several key large scale infrastructure projects could be soon getting the green signal. The Indian geosynthetics industry's growth story could well become the story of the next decade.
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A.S.A. Engineering Enterprises Pvt.Ltd
Geosynthetics
Organically Modified Bentonite as a Part of Geosynthetic Clay Liner System
Puvvadi V. Sivapullaiah1 and Vandana Sreedharan2

1 2
Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore Research scholar, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
Geosynthetics are versatile materials for geotechnical and geoenvironmental applications. The art, science and engineering of their use for geotechnical applications is relatively well documented. Geo membranes and Geosynthetic clay liners are increasingly used to control the migration of leachates from waste disposal facilities. While Geo membranes require well constructed clay back up and possess many limitations, geosynthetics clay liners are relatively easy to construct and performance better and also reducing the volume of lining system for disposal facilities. Geosyntheic clay will have bentonite glued to geomembrane to improve the mechanical properties, reducing permeability and improve the retention capacity for various pollutants present in the leachates. However the retention capacity of bentonite is high only with respect to inorganic ions. To improve the retention capacity of bentonite for organic pollutants the clay has to be organically modified. Thus to improve the performance of geosyntheic clay for organic contaminants, organically modified clay needs to be incorporated. The contents of bentonite and organic modified bentonite needs to chosen from the consideration of their geotechnical and sorption capacities.
ypical containment systems for landfills include the combined use of geosynthetics and earthen material components. A wide variety of geosynthetic products find application in environmental protection projects. They include geomembranes, geosynthetic clay liners (GCL), geonets, geocomposites and geopipes. Of the various types of geosynthetics used, GCL liners are one of the newest and their use is rapidly expanding. Geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) were first developed in the 1980s in USA, and since then their demand has increased many folds. Geosynthetic clay liners represent a composite material consisting of bentonite and geosynthetics. The geosynthetics used are either geotextiles or a geomembranes. Bentonite is contained by geotextiles on both sides and the geotextiles are bonded with an adhesive by needle-punching or by stitch-bonding. The GCLs have very low hydraulic conductivity to water of the order of 10-10 m/s and are relatively low cost and are of limited thickness. However due to the limited thickness of the GCLs they are vulnerable to mechanical accidents. The sorption capacity of GCLs is limited when compared to conventional clay liners. Therefore significant increase of diffusive transport is likely in the absence of any underlying attenuation mineral layer. Moreover, when hydrated with leachates other than
Advantages
Rapid installation/less skilled labor /low cost Very low hydraulic conductivity to water Can withstand large differential settlement Excellent self healing characteristics Mot dependent on availability of local soils Easy to repair Resistant to freeze/thaw cycles More air space due to lower thickness No field hydraulic conductivity testing required Hydrated GCL is an effective gas barrier Reduces overburden pressure
Disadvantages
Low shear strength of hydrated bentonite Can be punctured during and after puncture Possible loss of bentonite during installation Low moisture bentonite is permeable to gas Strength problem at interfaces Smaller leachate attenuation capacity Post-peak strength is small Higher long term flux due to lower thickness Compatibility problem with contaminants Higher diffusive flux of contaminants in comparison with compacted clay Prone to ion Exchange and desiccation
Table 1. Advantages and disadvantages of GCLs (modified from Bouzza,1997)
Geosynthetics
water, bentonite will show a limited swelling which results in reduced efficiency of the hydraulic barrier. The Table 1 summarizes the major advantages and disadvantages of GCLs. Extensive investigations on the hydraulic and diffusion characteristics, chemical compatibility, mechanical behaviour, and durability and gas migration of GCL have been taken up by many researchers. (Bouazza et al. 1996; Petrov et al. 1997a, b; Lake & Rowe 2000; Shackelford et al. 2000) The hydraulic performance of GCLs is largely controlled by hydraulic conductivity of the bentonite. The hydraulic conductivities of GCLs with water vary between 10-12 m/s and 10-10m/s, depending on applied confining stress. A reduction in GCL hydraulic conductivity observed with increasing confining stress is due to lower bulk void ratios resulting from higher confining stresses as in Figure 1. (Petrov et al. 1997 a).
performance of GCLs. A significant effect on both the short- and long-term performance of the GCL in the liner system is predictable on small changes within bentonite mineralogy, clay chemistry and particle size. Bentonite in GCLS Bentonite is a rock type generally derived from the chemical alteration of volcanic ash previously deposited in shallow seas. They find a lot of industrial applications because of their fine particle size, surface area, layer charge and swelling capacity. Bentonites with high smectite content are widely used for lining/containment applications owing to their higher sorption capacity for inorganic contaminants along with better hydraulic performance. Montmorillonite is a swelling layered silicate composed of a sheet of octahedrally coordinated cations bound on two sides by sheets of tetrahedrally coordinated cations. Each combination of two tetrahedral sheets and one octahedral sheet makes a crystallite layer and two adjacent crystallites are separated by a largely water-filled space called the interlayer. Hydrated cations occupy the interlayer space of montmorillonite to neutralize the layer charge due to substitutions in the tetrahedral and octahedral sheets. Crystalline swelling in montmorillonites results due to gain and loss of water by these cations. The impurity content of commercial bentonite used in GCL manufacture is to be leimited to less than30% by mass. However research by Benson et al. (2010) and Gates and Bouazza (2009) has showed that the addition of certain non-swelling impurities can improve the performance of a GCL due to formation of secondary mineral phase owing to the reaction with high pH solution and thus can clog pores within the bentonite The other aspects of the bentonite which are important are fundamental particle size of the smectite and the relative differences in their sizes. Two types of bentonites are predominantly used in GCL manufacture viz., powdered and granular. In the case of GCLs with powdered bentonite water slowly wets the entire bentonite layer forming a thin uniform layer of hydrated bentonite particles and these results in an effective seal against advective water movement. While in GCLs with granular bentonite water penetrates the full thickness of the bentonite layer and wets the external surfaces of the granules. Particles within the granules are wet more slowly from the pores. Initial advective flow is higher in the case of GCLs with granular bentonite. Figure 2 Shows the Hydration
Figure 1. Variation of hydraulic conductivity versus confining stress after (Bouazza 2002)
As GCLs are often used to contain liquids other than water, the evaluation of hydraulic conductivity of GCLs when acted upon by chemical solutions is important. Hence compatibility tests are performed to assess the hydraulic conductivity to the actual permeant liquid. GCL compatibility with various permeants has been well researched by a number of researchers (Petrov et al. 1997a, b; Petrov & Rowe 1997; Rowe 1998). The main factors pertaining to the GCL that influence the hydraulic conductivity with liquids other than water; itemized as aggregate size, montmorillonite content, thickness of adsorbed layer, pre hydration and void ratio of the mineral component. The major factor related to the pernmeant which influence the hydraulic conductivity of GCL is the concentration of monovalent and divalent cations. The research carried out (Shackelford et al. 2000) has provided with an improved understanding on the importance of the clay component of the GCL. And this has lead to the improvement in the
Powdered Bentonite Granular Bentonite Figure 2. Hydration in GCLs with powdered and Granular bentonite (after Gates and Benson 2009)
Geosynthetics
in GCLs with powdered and Granular bentonite. The range of values for different properties of bentonite used in GCL is given in Table 2
Property
Montmorillonite content Octahedral Mg content Octahedral Fe content Layer charge Layer charge location Cation exchange capacity Exchangeable cation
Range or value
>70% 0.4-0.8 atoms per unit cell(2-4% by eight) 0.3-0.6 atoms per unit cell(3-5 %by weight ) <0.85 e- per cell Predominantly (>50%) <110meq/100g Sodium
found in GCLs are Na+, K+, Ca++, Mg++, and Al+++. The bentonite becomes more permeable with catons of higher positive charges. Thus, the bentonite with Na+ cations is the most beneficial one. The least favorable cations are the polyvalent cations, which have a charge of +2 or more. Calcium cations tend to produce the most significant adverse effects on bentonite swelling and its sealing capacity. pH of the permeating liquid The pH of the permeating liquid can also affect the hydraulic conductivity of bentonite. Extremely acidic or caustic liquids may be aggressive and may dissolve some of the bentonite clay and dramatically increase hydraulic conductivity. Tests for Bentonite in GCLs Earlier studies have shown the effect of pore fluid chemistry on the soil properties, such as permeability and shear strength. Dielectric constant and fluid viscosity have been found to have the major influence on clay behavior. The variation in the chemical composition of the montmorillonite together with crystalline size and shape are found to significantly influence the functional properties of the bentonite. Therefore a broad range of chemical, mineralogical and functional properties of bentonite used in GCL are to be evaluated to ensure their performance. The common tests recommended are: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Fluid loss ASTMD 5891-02 Swell index ASTMD 5890-99 Hydraulic conductivity ASTM D5804-90 Plate water absorption ASTME 946-96 Methylene blue CEC Soluble Calcium Soluble Magnesium Leachable Ca++& CO3Leachable Mg++ pH Conductivity for TSD Moisture Loss on ignition 325 mesh non dispersible minerals
Table 2. The range of values desirable for different properties for bentonite used in GCL (after Gates and Benson 2009)
Parameters Controlling the Hydraulic Conductivity of Bentonite in GCL The hydraulic conductivity of bentonite and that of GCL are controlled by the following four major chemical-interaction parameters 1) Dielectric constant of permeating liquid, 2) Salt concentration of the permeating liquid, 3) Predominant cation of the bentonite vs. those in the permeating liquid, and 4) pH of the permeating liquid Dielectric constant of the permeating liquid. The lower the dielectric constant of the permeating liquid, lesser is the swelling of the bentonite and hence higher is its hydraulic conductivity. Therefore all organic liquids which have a much lower dielectric constant than water, therefore can cause potentially large increases in the hydraulic conductivity of bentonite. Dilute organics however, do not impede swelling in bentonite, and hence do not increase its hydraulic conductivity. Salt concentration of the permeating liquid. High concentrations of salts in the permeating liquid impart a negative effect on the hydraulic conductivity. When concentrations of salts are high at 1000ppm or more, they become large enough to cause concern. For concentrations less than about 500 ppm, it is the type of salt rather than the concentration that is critical. The cations The charge of the cation present in the bentonite relative to the cations in the permeating liquid plays a major role in deciding the hydraulic conductivity. The major cations
Use of Modified Bentonite in GCLs Numerous studies have examined the applicability and chemical compatibility of bentonites and GCLs, and have shown that the type and concentration of chemicals affect the hydraulic conductivity. It has been reported that the hydraulic conductivity value increases as the concentration of the electrolytic solution increases (Jo et al., 2001; Katsumi et al., 2007; Kolstad et al., 2004; Petrov and
Universal Construction Machinery Equipment Ltd
Geosynthetics
Rowe, 1997; Shackelford et al., 2000). The use of chemical resistant bentonite is reported as a considerable measure against the action of aggressive electrolytic solutions. Several types of modified bentonite materials have been developed to improve the chemical incompatibility of natural bentonite (Kolstad et al., 2004b; Lo et al., 1994, 1997; Onikata et al., 1996, 1999a, b; Gates et al., 2004;). The use of multi swellable bentonite and prehydrated GCLs and their effect when hydraulic conductivity values when -prehydrated geosynthetic clay liner (DPH-GCL) permeated with NaCl and/or CaCl2 permeant solutions were investigated by Katsumi et al.(2008). Onikata et al. (1996) discovered that propylene carbonate (PC) can be utilized as a swelling activation material which can exhibit sufficient swelling toward electrolytic chemical solutions and fresh water (Katsumi et al., 2004, Onikata et al., 1996, 1999a; Shackelford et al., 2000). Another effective method to enhance the chemical resistance of GCL is reported as to hydrate bentonite component before exposing to an electrolytic solution. A further method is to use consolidate bentonite as they exhibit lower hydraulic conductivity than unconsolidated bentonite (Katsumi and Fukagawa, 2005). Although GCLs are able to minimize the advective movement of contaminants the transport due to molecular diffusion can be a significant transport mechanism (Lake and Rowe, 2000, 2004). The mass flux of organic contaminants across composite of compacted clay and geomembrane liners by diffusion is reported to be significant. Since GCLs have an even shorter diffusive path than CCLs, the diffusion is a significant source of solute transport through GCLs as well. The inability of GCLs to impede movement of organic contaminants due to diffusive transport is of importance as GCLs are often used as barrier systems in applications where they may come into direct contact with organic solutes including landfills, barriers for highway construction and as temporary barriers for accidental spills. One method of minimizing the flux of organic pollutants through GCLs is by enhancing organic pollutant sorption by amending the bentonite layer with a material capable of strongly sorbing organic pollutants. Organically Modified Bentonites (OMB) Long and short chain quaternary alkyl ammonium compounds are the generally adopted modifiers for the preparation of organo clays. The efficiency and mechanism of sorption of organo clay are largely dependent on the characteristics of the organically modified clay. Exhaustive studies have suggested that the characteristics of organo clays of different origin vary considerably and depend on bentonite and organic molecules used for modification. Organophilic bentonite produced by exchanging some of the naturally occurring sodium or calcium ions on the internal and external surfaces of the bentonite with organic
cations can be incorporated in the GCLs and this will result in minimizing the flux of organic compounds by increasing sorption. However the huge cost of making OMB limits its large scale application. Laboratory diffusion and hydraulic conductivity testing were performed on GCLs amended with two different types of organo bentonites: and compared to the results for a GCL constructed with conventional sodium bentonite by Lorenzetti et al (2005). The results from the hydraulic conductivity testing have pointed out that the addition of organo bentonite result in an increase in hydraulic conductivity. Only a small increase in hydraulic conductivity was observed for both types of amended GCLs up to 20% organo bentonite amendment. At higher organo bentonite contents, measured hydraulic conductivity for both types of amended GCLs was higher by three orders of magnitude. The effective diffusion coefficient of [3H] water was measured for both the organo bentonite-amended GCLs and a laboratory-constructed sodium bentonite GCL were similar. One dimensional benzene solute transport is reported to significantly reduce with organo bentonite when compared to the conventional GCL. Geotechnical Evaluation of Bentonite and Modified Bentonite It is well established that the main requirements of clay liners are to ensure the minimization of pollutant migration over the long-term, low swelling and shrinkage, and resistance to shearing. (Brandl, 1992; Kayabal, 1997.). Sealing capacity of the clay depends on its swelling capacity. The swelling capacity of mixtures of bentonite and organic bentonite in different fluids, as assessed by free swell index, is presented in Figure 3. It is seen that the modified bentonite cannot have significant swelling with water or
Figure 3. Variation of swell index of bentonite-OMB (Vandana and Sivapullaiah 2012)
Geosynthetics
fluids of high dielectric constant as they are hydrophobic in nature. On the other hand modified clay has affinity for organic molecules. The adsorption of organic molecules and subsequent bonding by modified clay can alter their fabric and thus can very often exhibit swelling nature. The higher the ability of the organo clay to interact with any fluid the higher is the swelling with those organic fluids. The lower the dielectric constant of the fluid, the greater is the tendency of the organic molecules to be adsorbed by the organo clay. Thus the free swell of organo clay generally increases with decrease in dielectric constant, but there is no one to one correspondence because of differences in the type of bonding of the organic molecules with the clay. Sorption of Organic Contaminants by Bentonite and Organic Contaminants The influence of organic modification on the properties on the organic sorption of a bentonite modified with alkyl ammonium compound has been studied by Vandana and Sivapullaiah (2012). The potential of the organically modified clay for sorption of organic pollutant increased with increase in the concentration of organic pollutants in the leachate and can be as high as 0.9 mg/g of clay.
Several studies have found that linear relations hold for adsorption of organic compounds to the soil matrix (Ma et al., 2007). Linear sorption isotherms have been derived experimentally and used to estimate the amount of adsorbed organic compounds. Conclusions - Mixture of bentonite and organically modified performs better than either of them as a component of Geosynthetic clay liner system when the pore fluid contains a pure organic phase. - The swell of mixture containing 50-70% of bentonite and OMB is maximum in organic fluids and hence can reduce the leachate permeability better. - Sorption of organic pollutants increases linearly with initial concentration of contaminant for any bentonite. - The adsorption of organic pollutants is far higher for OMB than bentonite. References
- Benson, C.H., Oren A.H. and Gates W.P . (2010). Hydraulic conductivity of two geosynthetic clay liners permeated with a hyperalkalie solution. Geotextiles and Geomembranes, 28, 206-218 Bouazza, A., and Bowders, J. (2009). GCLs in Waste Containment Applications. Taylor Francis, U.K. Bouazza, A., Van Impe, W.F., Van Den Broeck, M. (1996). Hydraulic conductivity of a geosynthetic clay liner under various conditions. Proceedings of the Second International Congress on Environmental Geotechnics, Vol. 1, Osaka, Japan. 453-458. Brandl (1992). Mineral liners for hazardous waste containment, Geotechnique, 42, 57-65. Chang, P . H., Li, Z., Jiang, W.-T., and Jean, J. S. (2009). Adsorption and intercalation of tetracycline by swelling clay minerals. Applied Clay Science, 46, 27-36. Gates, W. P ., Hornsey, W. P ., and Buckely, J. L. (2009). Geosynthetic Clay Liners - Is the key component being overlooked GIGSA GeoAfrica 2009 Conference Cape Town, 2 - 5. Gates, W.P ., (2004). Crystalline swelling of organo-modi?ed clays in ethanol-water solutions. Applied Clay Science 27, 1-12. Jo, H. Y., Katsumi, T., Benson, C.H. & Edil, T.B. (2001). Hydraulic conductivity and swelling of nonprehydrated GCLs permeated with single species salt solutions. Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering 127(7), 557-567. Katsumi, T., Fukagawa, R., (2005). Factors affecting chemical compatibility and barrier performance of GCLs. In: Proceedings of the 16th International Conference on Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering. Millpress Science Publishers, Rotterdam, Netherlands, 2285-2288; Katsumi, T., Ishimori, H., Onikata, M., and Fukagawa, R. (2008). Longterm barrier performance of modified bentonite materials against sodium and calcium permeant solutions. Geotextiles and Geomembrnes, 26(1), 14-30.
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Figure 4. Effect of organic modification on the adsorption capacity of bentonite
The degree of adsorption of organic compound to the mineral surface can be estimated by the linear adsorption isotherms. When organic contaminants are sorbed on to the organo clay, it can partition into the organic phase attached to the clay. The sorption capacty is determined by the properties of the contaminant as well as by the properties of the organo clay it is introduced to. The adsorption of hydrophobic organic phase on clay is governed by the partitioning mechanism resulting in a higher adsorption for contaminants with higher octanol/ water partitioning coefficients (Kow). (Chang et al. 2009).
Geosynthetics
Kayabali, K. (1997). Engineering aspects of a novel landfill liner material: bentonite amended natural zeolite. Engineering Geology, 46, 105-114. Kolstad, D. C., Benson, C. H. and Edil, T. B. (2004). Hydraulic conductivity and swell of nonprehydrated geosynthetic clay liners permeated with multispecies inorganic solutions, Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering, Vol. 130, 1236-1249 Lake, C. B., and Rowe, R. K. (2004). Volatile organic compound diffusion and sorption coefficients for a needle punched GCL, Geosynthetics International (special issue on GCLs), 11, No. 4, 257-272. Lake, C.B., Rowe, R.K., (2000). Diffusion of sodium and chloride through geosynthetic clay liners. Geotextiles and Geomembranes, 18, 102-132. Lo, I. M. C., Liljestrand, H. M., and Daniel, E. D. (1994). Hydraulic conductivity and adsorption parameters for pollutant transport through montmorillonite and modi?ed montmorillonite clay liner materials. ASTM Special Technical Publication, Issue 1142, ASTM, West Conshohocken, Pa., 422- 438. Lo, I.M. C., Mak, R.K. M., Lee, S.C.-H., (1997). Modi?ed clays for waste containment and pollutant attenuation. Journal of Environmental Engineering 123 (1), 25-32.L0 1997 Ma, C., Wu, Y., Sun, C., and Lee, L. (2007). Adsorption characteristics of perchloroethylene in natural sandy materials with low organic carbon content. Environmental Geology, 52, 1511-1519. Onikata, M., Kondo, M., Hayashi, N., Yamanaka, S., (1999). Complex formation of cation-exchanged montmorillonites with propylene carbonate: osmotic swelling in aqueous electrolyte solutions. Clays and Clay Minerals 47, 672-677 Onikata, M., Kondo, M., Kamon, M., (1996). Development and - - -
characterization of multi swellable bentonite. In: Environmental Geotechnics, A.A. Balkema, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, 587-590. Petrov, R.J., and Rowe, R.K. (1997a). GCL-chemical compatibility by hydraulic conductivity testing and factors impacting its performance. Canadian Geotechnical Journal, 34(6), 863- 885. Petrov, R.J., Rowe, R.K. and Quigley, R.M. (1997b). Selected factors influencing GCL hydraulic conductivity. Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering 123(8), 683-695. Petrov, R.J., Rowe, R.K. and Quigley, R.M. (1997c). Comparison of laboratory measured GCL hydraulic conductivity based on three permeameter types. Geotechnical Testing Journal, 20 1, 49-62. Rowe, R.K (1998). Geosynthetics and the minimization of contaminant migration through barrier systems beneath solid waste, Proceedings 6th International Conference on Geosynthetics, Atlanta 1, 27-102. Schackelford, C.D., Benson, C.H., Katsumi, T., Edil, T.B. and Lin, L. (2000). Evaluating the hydraulic conductivity of GCLs permeated with nonstandard liquids. Geotextiles and Geomembranes 18, 133-161. Vandana S. and Sivapullaiah P . V. (2012). Physico chemical and geotechnical evaluation of organically modified bentonite to contain organic contaminants, clay minerals (under review)
Publishers Note: This paper was presented during the One day conference on Geosynthetic Lining Solutions and Related Issues by ASCE IS SR in association with Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, Indian Chapter of International Geosynthetic Society, New Delhi, Karnataka Geotechnical Center of Indian Geotechnical Cociety, Bengaluru, The Masterbuilder at IISc, Bengaluru, Karnataka on 25th February 2012.
Action Construction Equipment Ltd
Face to Face
Interaction: Tiru Kulkarni,
VP, Geosynthetics Division, Garware Wall Ropes Ltd.
Tell us briefly about your geosynthetics product range and their application areas? Garware has two key sectors of business thrust viz : Environment Protection - which encompasses the following application areas and products. Landfill engineering and Lining Main product range includes geomembrane, GCL, woven and non woven geo-textile, geo-nets and geo-composites. Coastal protection and river training Main product range includes gabions (polymer and metal), geotubes and geo-bags, woven and non-woven geo-textile. Rock fall protection Main product range includes High strength boulder nets, boulder arrestors, DT wire mesh.
Tiru Kulkarni
Vice President- Geosynthetics Division Garware Wall Ropes Ltd.
The Indian geo-synthetic industry is becoming more and more solution oriented; which means that clients are increasingly looking for turnkey solutions and not products Therefore, we generally get involved in the project from the problem referral phase. This means that clients involve us when they face a geotechnical or hydraulic problem on their site. The process involved in arriving at the correct geo-synthetic solution can be summarized in the following steps: Initial site visit to understand the genesis of the problem. Proposing a broad techno-commercial solution for the problem. Liaising with the client to understand his priorities and constraints vis-avis the solution proposed. Fine tuning the proposed solution to fit in with the needs / priorities / constraints of the client. This step often involves repeated site visits and even preliminary activities like conducting a site specific survey, etc. Executing the solution proposed and agreed with the client. The process of execution involves conducting of site audits by our technical team to ensure that on site quality is maintained as per design codes and standards of practice.
arware Wall Ropes Ltd. has carved a niche of its own in the field of geosynthetics through its range of products and services. The company's stringent adherence to the highest quality standards and customerfocussed approach has seen it make rapid forays into the Indian market in the recent past. In an exclusive interaction with The Masterbuilder, Mr.Tiru Kulkarni, Vice President-Geosynthetics Division, gave an insight into the company's product range and the Geosynthetics industry in general. Mr.Kulkarni is completed his graduation in Civil Engineering from Mumbai University and subsequently his post graduation in Construction Management from NICMAR. He has extensive experience in the Geosynthetic industry spanning over 15 years in India, as well as AsiaPacific (APAC) countries. His work experience includes an earlier project management stint with the L & T group. As the Vice President of the Geosynthetics Division in Garware Wall Ropes his responsibilities include a mix of technical, business development and operational functions. Here are excerpts from the interview.
Infrastructure which encompasses the following application areas and products. Roads Main product range includes R E Walls (with steel and polymer reinforcement ), Metal gabions for slope stability, Garmat for erosion control. Railways Main product range includes geo-grids for basal stabilization, metal gabions and rock-fall products. Ground improvement Main product range includes geo-cells.
Coastal protection using geosynthetics is one of your areas of specialization. How do your products help in building sea walls? Garware has been at the forefront of promoting soft solutions for coastal protection in India. Our products like geo-tubes and geo-bags are designed to use natural materials like locally available soil / sand as filler. Hence, the core of the sea wall, which normally comprises of armour (large boulders) is replaced by
As is evident from the above list, Garware deals with a wide range of products to cater to different application areas. Give us an overview of the process adopted by you to arrive at the right geosynthetic solution for a particular project?
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Face to Face
locally available sand / soil encased in a high strength geotextile. Such a solution has also been termed as a soft rock solution. The soft core is then protected with suitably designed armour (large boulders) on the seaward side. Apart from the obvious savings in cost due to the replacement of the core with naturally available material, the project leaves a smaller carbon footprint as boulders consume a lot of energy in their crushing, transport and placement operations. These soft solutions require less machinery and skilled labour, which means that locally available labour can be used to implement these solutions. This has positive social ramifications in our country. Give us a few examples of recent landmark infrastructure projects where your products and solutions have played a key role? We have recently completed the work of rock fall mitigation in Lonavla, for Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRCDC). This project involved installation of boulder nets and boulder arrestors at some treacherous locations abutting the Mumbai Pune expressway that were facing repeated incidents of rock fall. These installations were recently surveyed by the Central Road Research Institute (CRRI) which has expressed satisfaction with the end result.
construction of a 2.5km long sea wall for the extension and protection of AHPPL's non LNG terminal facility in Hazira. We have also substantially completed installation of a 2 km long sea wall in Uppada, Andhra Pradesh. This sea wall has withstood 2 cyclones in the past two years and has served to protect the adjoining villages from the ingress of the sea.
trend has served to delay the decision making process and thereby make the order pipeline longer. Let me explain. Since our projects are developed from the problem identification phase itself, our lead time for projects is anywhere between 1-3 years. When an already long lead time like this becomes even longer due to a delay in decision making, then it is sometimes frustrating. Also, cash flow has become very critical and needs to be monitored closely. Overall, we find that since we are present in a multitude of sectors, there is a good balance maintained in terms of order book. Depressions in one sector tend to get evened out by another. However, I would say that the recessionary trend has certainly affected growth expectations currently. We are maintaining realistic growth projections till the scenario improves. Given the immense potential for geosynthetics in India do you feel that the industry's growth rate has been up to expectations? Not at all. If we benchmark ourselves against China which has a similar topography and problems, we lag immensely in the speed of execution. The breadth and depth of geo-synthetic usage in China is many times more than in our country. Even considering the difference in socio, economic and political systems, geosynthetic usage in India should be much higher than what it is now. However, there have been efforts recently to promote and co-ordinate the use of technical textiles in the country, which are welcome. We hope that these efforts will have a positive effect on the growth of the industry.
How do your products score when it comes to the sustainability quotient? Sustainability of a product depends on three factors: Design: Our products are designed using international design norms, like British and American design codes. Product quality: Our products are tested as per international testing codes, both in-house as well as through third parties. Installation: The installations are either carried out by us, or, if they are carried out by others, we depute supervisors to guide the contractor. In short, being involved in every stage of the project helps us to be focused on and deliver on the sustainability quotient. Has the recent recessionary trend impacted your order book? We are finding that the recessionary

Garware Wall Ropes Ltd.
Plot NO. 11, Block D-1, MIDC, Chindhwad, Pune - 411019 Ph: +91-20-30780000 / 30780187, Fax: +91-20-30780350 E-mail: geo@garwareropes.com Web: www.garwareropes.com
We have also recently completed the work of installation of a geo-bags system for Adani Hazira Port Pvt Ltd in Hazira, Gujarat. This project involved
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A Comprehensive Geosynthetics Solution Provider

TM Geosynthetics, which is a division of CTM Technical Textiles Ltd, a part of the Chatrbhuj Lajpatrai Company. The driving force behind the rapid growth of CTM Geosynthetics has been Mr.Amit Agarwal, the young and dynamic entrepreneur and grandson of Late Shri Lajpatrai Chatarbhuj, the founder of CTM Textile Mills and The Patel Mills Co Ltd, Ahmedabad. The company with its strong foundations and technical expertise in polymers had diversified into the highly specialized field of technical textiles, forming an exclusive geosynthetics division to offer products and services catering to the requirements of civil engineering and infrastructure development. World-class infrastructure has been one of the primary reasons behind the company's rapid growth in recent times.CTM Geosynthetics has set up its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for producing a wide range of high tenacity woven polyester yarn Geogrid at Ahmedabad. The manufacturing unit
boasts of imported machines from Europe and a full-fledged in-house laboratory for testing of products in accordance with inter-nationally accepted test standards, among other facilities. The company's facilities are manned by some of the finest talents in the industry comprising of experienced project managers, engineers, technicians and supervisors who have been successfully implementing turnkey projects involving geosynthetic and geoenvironmental solutions with utmost efficiency and quality.
The CTM-Geogrid range consists of a typical synthetic Geogrid material characterized by woven bands of narrow elements in regular, grid-like pattern with large voids between the woven bands. It's the tensile strength of the woven bands and the voids between those bands that lend stabilizing strength to the projects that they are used in. CTM- Geogrids are woven and online PVC coated, and specifically engineered for demanding soil applications. The product is ideal for the reinforcement of soils and other
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granular materials for a variety of applications. The CTM Geogrid range consists of two categories, CTM Geogrid Uniaxial and CTM Geogrid Biaxial. CTM Geogrid Uniaxial is polyester Geogrid, which are available in a range of tensile strengths and are suitable for applications which require strength in one direction, such as in the case of reinforced soil walls, steep slopes and veneer reinforcement, etc. CTM Geogrid Biaxial is a polyester Geogrid, designed
for application where strength in both directions is important , such as reinforcement of granular road base, sub-base, area stabilization, track bed stabilization and load transfer platforms, etc. The company is a serious manufacturer of geo grid and hence intend to associate with company who are presently suppliers to the contractors, contractors themselves and or the construction companies themselves. The idea is that the core competency of
the company is manufacturing and want to focus completely on it and become a valuable vendor to the companies looking for excellent quality of Geo grids.

CTM Technical Textiles Ltd.
205, New Cloth Market, Ahmedabad - 380002, Gujarat, India. Ph: +91 - 79 - 22165163 Fax: +91 - 79 - 22169326 Mobile: +91 9687988555 E-mail: info@ctmgeosynthetics.com Web: www.ctmgeosynthetics.com
NITC Students Provide Solar Power for a Tribal School
The Social Engineering Forum, a student collective of National Institute of Technology- Calicut (NITC) has completed the electrification of the Chettiyalathur Government LP School located deep inside the Wayanad wildlife sanctuary using solar panels under the Aavishkaar project. The school had been demanding power for more than three decades. The Aavishkaar project was launched to provide a platform for NITC students to carry out their social commitments. The students made their first visit to the school in September, and made repeated visits to the remote place to complete the project in three weeks' time. The entire 5,000 strong student community of NITC had lined up to raise funds for the initiative as part of this year's Tathva technomanagement meet. Because of the power connection the students are now able to use the computer given to them two years earlier. 30 odd students belonging to the Kattunayikka and Paniya tribes are benefited from the project. The school is the only place in the colony to have light now and students can from now on use the facility for studies at night as well. The school is planning to open a public library for the students soon.
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Kumkang Kind Co.Ltd
Concept & Application of Geocomposites
Rajnikant Swain, Director, Maharshee Geomembrane (India) Pvt. Ltd.
Gcl
eocomposite is combination of various Geosynthetics materials like Geotextile, Geonet, Geomembrane, Geogrid bounded in such a way that specific applications are addressed in the optimal manner, minimum lost, less time and minimum labour force and are waving basic functions separation, reinforcement, filtration, drainage and containment. Geotextile - Geonet Composites. Geotextile - Geomembrane composites. Geotextile - Geonet - Geomembrane composite. Geomembrane - Geogrid composites. Geotextile- Geogrid Composites and Geotextile - Geotextile composites. Polymerised bituminous liner with Geomembrane and Geotextile Composite.
Application: Geocomposite used as barriers / separation layers to separate and contain polluted Soil or waste and avoid migration of pollutants to the surrounding soil or waste and avoid migration of pollutants to the surrounding soil or water. They can be mounted on solid frames to build below ground physical barriers i.e. separation walls. In railways applications, geocomposites can replace the sand layers separating the track ballast from the foundation, performing the same function of stopping the upward migration of Fines.
Geotextile
Used in trenches alongside highways, behind retaining walls and bridge abutments, under embankments build over compressive soils etc. Leachate in landfill, pond living, drainage where frost leave or salt migration problem, main forced walls or slope. Highway pavement, airfield pavement, railroad right -of- way. At present , we can supply you in 2 mtr. and 4 mtr. Width and 25 to 50 mtr. Length. With the largest market in Geomembrane and only manufacturer of multilayered Geomembrane in India, Maharshee Geomembrane (India) Pvt. Ltd. commitment to this country is further addition of Geocomposite plant in 2012 proves it's modern technology, and performance levels. Besides that we are in multifilament FDY PP yarn and Geotextile production.
Maharshee Geomembrane (I) Pvt. Ltd.
D-12, Kamalanjali Complex, Above HDFC Bank, Nr. Radhakrishan Park Crossing, Akota, Vadodara - 20, Telefax: +91-265-2322968, E-mail: info@mgipl.in, businessdevelopment@mgipl.in Web: www.mgipl.in www.maharsheegeomembrane.com
Geomembrane
Geonet
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Atul Fasteners Ltd
Waterproofing
Case Study: Long Term Performance of HDPE Drainboards in the Gotthard Railway Tunnels
Marcus Jablonka, Cosella-Drken, Heinz Peter Raidt, Drken GmbH
Drainboards have been frequently employed in tunnel lining applications, both in cut-and-cover projects and in bored tunnels. The function of the drainage layer is to provide permanent relief of hydrostatic water pressure, while the waterproof liner prevents any ingress of water into the tunnel. Such systems are subject to high mechanical, physical, chemical and sometimes biological operational demands, both during the installation period as well as later in-situ during the service life. In order to provide adequate performance, drainage products must maintain their full integrity over the entire design life of the structure. While product specifications often avoid any reference to durability and long-term performance properties, it is clear that aging processes affect these polymeric materials. Hence, the durability and aging resistance of drainage membranes, like any polymeric products, is of primary concern. The first section of this paper describes advantages and concerns related to the usage of, and the design with polymeric drainboards in tunnel construction. In a second section, common degradation mechanisms associated with HDPE sheets are described. The third section describes stringent requirements for the Gotthard Alpine Railway Tunnel through the Swiss Alps, e.g. high ambient temperatures of up to 45C and an expected service life of up to 100 years, which require outstanding aging resistance of polymeric drainage materials. The paper describes the methods deployed to investigate the long-term performance of HDPE drainboards, focusing on aging mechanisms identified in the second section. Details associated to test procedures developed to reflect the specific properties of drainboards are presented as well as the results obtained. A summary table shows recommended product specifications needed to confine the aging properties of dainboards and to design a system performing adequately throughout the entire lifetime of the structure.
amage to underground building structures ranks high in damage statistics of buildings (Abel et al., 1991). Identifying expected water exposure conditions is therefore an important step for proper planning of a waterproofing and drainage system. An effective drainage layer greatly improves and warrants the reliability of the waterproofing layer by relieving hydrostatic pressure caused by dammed-up seepage water. Furthermore, a drainboard can provide effective protection for a waterproofing liner against potential damage from mechanical impact and consequential moisture intrusion. Polymer based materials are commonly used to manufacture drainboards, providing inherent advantages as low weight, ease of application, etc. Sometimes such materials are even used where products with long expected service lifetimes are required.
This paper reflects on advantages of using Polyethylene based drainboards, and on their performance criteria. Since organic materials are affected by physical and chemical ageing processes, long-term durability and possible concerns associated with the deployment of such polymeric products are also discussed. Degradation mechanisms of HDPE membranes are described and the requirements for long-term properties for drainage materials for new railway tunnels through the Swiss Alps with expected service lifetime requirements of up to 100 years (Flueeler et al., 2001) are discussed. Test procedures developed to reflect the specific properties of drainboards are presented, as well as the results obtained. A summary table shows recommended product specifications needed to confine the aging properties of dainboards and to design a system performing adequately throughout the entire lifetime of the structure.
Waterproofing
Advantages of Polymeric Drainboards Drainboards, generally comprised of a semi-rigid polymeric sheet with a 3-dimensional dimple structure, make an excellent drain on sub-grade structures (Koerner, 1997). Such products are commonly used to protect structures against moisture, to control ground water, and to reduce or eliminate hydrostatic pressure. Drainboards are also instrumental in tunnel lining applications to intercept artesian, fissure, and seepage water. Gravity forces can cause hydrostatic pressure build-up of water on sub-grade structures. The main objective of drainboards is to reduce or eliminate hydrostatic pressure against below grade structures by providing an effective drainage layer, and to prevent infiltration of water into the construction. A typical high-density polyethylene based drainboard is shown in Figure 1. In tunnel lining applications the drainage path for the water is provided by the air gap between the studded polymer core and the shotcrete surface. Figure 2 illustrates how
seepage water passes through the shotcrete layer and is safely drained to the footer drain. Performance Criteria for Drainboards For a drainboard to function effectively throughout the lifetime of the structure, key performance criteria must be evaluated, also with respect to long-term durability. They can be categorized into mechanical properties, hydraulic properties, and durability. While drainboards are generally available with or without a geotextile laminated to the drainage core material, it should be noted that this paper only reflects on drainboard types without geotextiles. In this type of application a geotextile is not required since the shotcrete acts as a filter layer. Mechanical properties comprise the compression behavior of a drainboard, typically described as stress over strain. This material characteristic is important since the 3dimensional membrane will be exposed to pressure, and its drainage capability is dependent on its compression resistance. An appropriate test method for determining the short-term compression behavior of a drainboard is ASTM D6364. While this test standard can give an indication of the momentary compression behavior of the material, it cannot, by itself, characterize the long-term compression behavior of the product. Other important mechanical properties of drainboards are breaking force and elongation, measurable according to ASTM D5035. In addition, the static and dynamic puncture resistance of these membranes is important. Dynamic puncture resistance reflects the products ability to sustain the shock induced by the fall or impact of objects as may occur during installation. Static puncture reflects the ability of the product to sustain a local pressure. Appropriate test standards are CGSB 37-GP-56M and CGSB 37-GP-52M. Furthermore, hydraulic transmissivity and in-plane flow rate are important performance characteristics of a drainboard. These characteristics can be determined and described as per ASTM D4716. In order to characterize the long-term durability of drainboards, a number of standard test methods can be employed. For characterization of aging and oxidation, an oven-aging test as per ASTM D5721 and an OIT (Oxidative Induction Time) test as per ASTM D3895 are suitable in combination with compression behavior testing at different intervals of aging. Another degradation mechanism with relevance for HDPE drainboards is environmental stress-cracking. Generally suitable test methods to determine the environmental stress-cracking resistance (ESCR) are ASTM D1693 in most of the plastics industry, ASTM D5397 in the HDPE
Figure 1: Typical HDPE Drainboard
Figure 2: Drainboard in Tunnel Lining Application
Waterproofing
geomembrane industry, or ASTM F2136 in the HDPE pipe industry. However, the particular structure of drainboards (e.g., sheet thickness, presence of recycled polyethylene in co-extruded configurations) may not allow the use of these common tests. A test method referenced as Sageos GD001 (Stress Cracking Resistance of Dimpled Sheets) as described in Jablonka/Blond (2009), characterizes the ESCR of polyethylene-based drainboards. Durability of HDPE Drainboards While polymers are being utilized in virtually every area of our life, the volume of polymers used in the above-mentioned applications represents only a fraction of the entire polymer market worldwide. The use of High Density Polyethylene in drainboards differs from many other applications since these membranes are intended to fulfill their function over long time periods. While some HDPE articles are made for short time periods only, drainboards are expected to fulfill their function for the lifetime of the structure typically in the range of 50 years or more. Durability concerns therefore need to be understood and evaluated. Most situations involving the expertise of a geotechnical engineer are dealt with under the aspect of ground water conditions, seepage, settlement, pressures, etc. Typically the short-term properties of materials are being evaluated without giving much consideration to their durability and potential degradation factors. Important to the durability of drainboards is their raw material formulation, the imposed in-service conditions, as well as the environmental conditions to which they will be exposed between manufacturing and the actual service life. The material formulation deserves special attention when recycled content is used in such membranes; especially if the membranes are made of 100% recycled HDPE. Since the use of recycled content in drainboards may potentially compromise their long-term durability, the intensity of the negative impact must be evaluated and understood in order to ensure that the key performance characteristics are maintained throughout the functional service life of these products. Degradation Mechanisms Relevant to Hdpe Drainboards Aging and degradation of polymers essentially takes place at the molecular level. Polymers are materials composed of large molecules of very high molecular weight. The cohesive forces of a polymer, which greatly affect
the physical and chemical degradation mechanisms that can take place, are determined by the chemical composition of the polymer. The molecular structure of Polyethylene is shown in Figure 3. The characteristics of the polymer depend on intermolecular forces and are greatly influenced by the chain structure (i.e., chain length, linearity, branching, cross-linking, etc.), morphology (i.e., crystallinity), molecular weight distribution, irregularities (i.e., impurities), additives (i.e., color pigments, antioxidants, UV stabilizers, flame retardants, antistatic agents, etc.), as well as by the manufacturing process itself, during which the polymer is exposed to thermal and shear stresses initiatiating degradation mechanisms. Process conditions will also determine the effectiveness of mixing additives and stabilizers into the polymer, which can influence the morphology of the end product and the degree of stabilization against environmental factors like heat, UV, oxygen, etc. Essential aging and degradation mechanisms of polymers commonly used in geosynthetics, have been described in depth by Kay et al. (2004). HDPE is generally very resilient against environmental factors. Due to a low degree of branching Polyethylene has strong intermolecular forces and tensile strength. Being non-polar, it provides a very high resistance to chemicals. The permeability of Polyethylene to liquids and gases is very low. It is also very resilient to alkaline and acidic agents, as well as salt solutions. Polyethylene copolymers generally provide good lowtemperature flexibility and increased environmental stress cracking resistance. Hence HDPE (copolymer) seems to be the ideal polymer to be used for drainboards. However, during their functional service life drainboards are exposed to several relevant degradation mechanisms. These aging mechanisms can, under certain circumstances, influence their properties and even reduce their durability and lifetime expectancy. Hence, the characteristics of the material used as well as the actual exposure conditions must be considered in order to evaluate the potential implication of these degradation mechanisms to the final product and its functional service life. One of the most relevant degradation mechanisms of HDPE is oxidation, which can occur in form of thermo-, photo-, and chemical oxidation. The long-term durability and performance of Polyethylene membranes can be ensured through adequate stabilization with antioxidants and UV stabilizers. In the presence of sensitizing agents HDPE can become sensitive to Environmental Stress Cracking, which next to oxidation is the most relevant degradation mechanism of this polymer. ASTM D883 explains stress cracking as
Figure 3: Molecular Structure of Polyethylene
Bitumode International Pvt Ltd
Waterproofing
an external or internal crack in a plastic caused by tensile stresses less than its short-term mechanical strength. This typically describes brittle cracking with little or no ductile drawing from the adjacent failure surfaces of the polymeric material. The occurrence of environmental stress cracking of stressed samples is linked to the presence of surfaceactive wetting agents such as alcohols and surfactants. The surface-active wetting agents dont chemically attack the polymer, nor do they produce any effect other than microscopically brittle-appearing fractures. The fractures initiate at microscopic imperfections in the material, and propagate through the crystalline regions of the polymer structure. In the absence of such surface-active wetting agents, these fractures would not occur in any reasonable time period under the same stress conditions. A polymers ability to resist environmental stress cracking is generally known as ESCR (Environmental Stress Crack Resistance). Different polymers exhibit varying levels of ESCR. It is important to know that the stress cracking susceptibility between different types of PE can be very different (Hsuan, 2000). Some grades of HDPE have very good ESCR, while other grades only show a marginal resilience. The principle variables that affect the ESCR in HDPE include the crystallinity, molecular weight (ESCR improves as molecular weight increases), the molecular weight distribution (generally a narrow molecular weight distribution shows poorer ESCR values than a broader distribution), branch length, and lamellar orientation
(Lustiger, 1996). Naturally the ESCR testing conditions (i.e. reagent concentration, testing temperature, applied stress) also have a major influence on the ESCR that the tested sample will exhibit. Recycled content is also known to affect the ESCR of polymers. Historically, and practically, recycled materials do not perform as well as virgin polymers when subjected to Environmental Stress-Cracking (Develle et al., 2003). The effects of, as well as the resistance to environmental stress cracking of polyethylene based drainboards and a suitable test procedure have been discussed in depth by Jablonka/Blond (2009); the differences in environmental stress crack resistance of polyolefin based dimple sheets can be very significant as shown in Figure 4.
Figure 5: Detail of Tunnel Wall Showing Rock (1), Shotcrete Surface (2), Drainboard (4), Waterproofing (5), Concrete Liner (6) and Drainage Pipe (7)
(a) No Failure
(b) Cracking
Perhaps the most important factors governing the degradation rate of polymeric drainboards are the ambient pH value (Corbet et al., 1993) and the ambient temperature. As quantitatively described by the Arrhenius Equation the rate of degradation increases with an increase in ambient temperature. Long-Term Performance of Hdpe Drainboards in the Gotthard Alptransit Railway Tunnel Durability Requirements As part of a new railway connection from the North to the South in Switzerland the Gotthard base tunnel is being built as double-shell tunnel. With a total length of 56.8 km the Gotthard tunnel is the longest tunnel in the world. Figure 5 shows a combination of a waterproofing system and a drainage layer between the shotcrete outer shell and the concrete inner shell. This design concept continuously
(c) Severe Cracking Figure 4: Environmental Stress Cracking on Three Different Drainboard Specimens After Submersion in Alkaline Water at Elevated Temperature and Lateral Load
Waterproofing
drains seepage water away in order to protect the concrete shell against hydrostatic pressure, and to locally transfer high loads onto the concrete support structure. At the base, where the mountain cover is up to 7,500 ft high, geothermal effects can generate rock temperatures of up to 45C. Hence, the seepage water can also reach temperatures of up to 45C. The water is mostly alkaline, but may also be acidic in some areas. The expected service lifetime for this tunnel is 100 years, with no major repairs being necessary for at least 50 years. There are currently no existing test standards with suitable criteria for such high loads and requirements, and available drainage materials previously had not been designed for or tested under comparable conditions. Hence a comprehensive product evaluation had to be performed. Durability Testing A number of different waterproofing systems and drainboards were tested in regards to their ageing resistance in a 24 months program. The test program has been described in depth by Fleler et al. (2001). The drainage products that were submitted for testing were made from Polyethylene, Polypropylene, Polyamide and Polyester. These products included dimpled sheets (drainboards), nets, randomly oriented mats and nonwoven geotextiles. This paper focuses on polyethylenebased drainboards only. The test program comprised existing test methods, that were augmented by additional procedures, e.g. aging resistance in oxygen-enriched water at elevated temperatures, compression creep tests between rough surfaces, tests under combined lateral loads and horizontal shear, as well as installation tests including the construction of the concrete support shell.
Aging During the ageing part of the material evaluation the drainboard specimens were exposed to a number of different conditions for a period of 24 months: Water circulated at 23C Water circulated at 45C Water circulated at 70C Alkaline water (saturated calcium-hydroxide solution) circulated at 50C - Acidic water (0.5% solution of sulphuric acid) circulated at 50C - Oxygen-enriched water circulated at 70C and 3 bar pressure - Environment with aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms Figure 6 shows the schematic of a pressure vessel for ageing of specimens in oxygen-enriched water at elevated temperature and pressure. Five times during the test period specimens were tested for visual appearance, mass changes, in-plane water transmissivity and mechanical properties. In addition - - - -
Figure 7: Inlet Pressure of Drainage Water Versus Lateral Compression Load
thermoanalytical tests were applied after 3, 6, 12 and 24 months to sufficiently characterize the aging behavior of the products. Furthermore the performance of the specimens under compression creep load was evaluated. Results The drainage materials generally reacted to acidic and alkaline exposure. Some polyamide and polyester based products decomposed in acidic water and embrittled in hot water (70C) within 6 months. While the polyethylene based drainboard specimens with a weight of 1200 g/ m2 and a maximum compressive strength of 950 kN/m2 specifically formulated and stabilized to withstand the harsh environment - were relatively unaffected by these conditions, they did show noticeable effects of ageing in hot
Figure 6: Schematic of Pressure Vessel for Ageing in Oxygen-Enriched Water at Elevated Temperature and Pressure
Waterproofing
Exposure conditions Change in Mass

Water at 23C Water at 45C Water at 70C 0.5% sulphuric acid at 50C Aqueous saturated calciumhydroxide solution Aerobic micro-organisms in soil at 29C, 98% relative humidity Anaerobic micro-organisms in soil at 29C, 98% relative humidity 4% 5% 7% 7% 7% 7% 7%
Change in Mechanical Strength

-20% -30% -50% -50% -50% No requirements No requirements
Transmissivity
> 10-4 [m2/s] > 10-4 [m2/s] > 10-4 [m2/s] > 10-4 [m2/s] > 10-4 [m2/s] No requirements No requirements
Table 1: Exposure Conditions, Criteria and Requirements After 24 Months Aging for Polymeric Drainboards
environments when submitted to compression creep load. However, in spite of large deformations of drainboards under such conditions they still proved to be fairly well suited as the water inlet pressure during in-plane water transmissivity tests under lateral loads remained consistently low. Minor visual changes such as loss of glance were detected on polyethylene based drainboards after 24 months exposure to all conditions. Only small changes were detected after exposure of the specimens to micro-organisms under aerobic or anaerobic soil conditions. The mass loss of 0.8% for polyethylene based drainboards after 24 months of ageing in water at 23C was very low. After 24 months exposure to 70C water the polyethylene based drainboard yielded a modest mass increase. After exposure to alkaline or acidic conditions the specimens also showed modest mass changes. The in-plane water transmissivity values of the drainboard specimens measured at a lateral load of 200 kN/m2 after exposure, were generally not different from those measured in the as-received state. All exposure conditions as shown in Table 1 (Basler, 1998) could be met with a specially formulated polyethylene based drainboard. Summary Polymer based drainboards are affected by physical and chemical aging processes. Degradation mechanisms and aging processes of HDPE membranes as well as requirements for long-term properties for drainage materials for the Swiss AlpTransit tunnels with expected service lifetime requirements of up to 100 years were discussed in this paper. Test procedures that have been developed to characterize the aging behavior of such products were presented. The results from the extensive test program showed that standard waterproofing/drainage systems would be unable to fulfill the requirements for the AlpTransit Base Tunnels.
However, refined systems were able to prove their suitability to fulfill the stringent requirements. A specially formulated polyethylene based drainboard underwent an stringent test procedure. Drainboard samples were aged over a 24-month period. During the aging period the specimens were submerged in acidic and alkaline solutions at 50C, and in oxygen-enriched water at 70C and then tested again. All required product specifications needed to confine the ageing properties of dainboards, could be met. References
- Abel, R., Dahmen, G., Lamers, R., Oswald, R., Schnapauff, V. and Wilmes, K. (1991). Bauschadensschwerpunkte bei Sanierungs- und Instandhaltungsmassnahmen, Aachener Institut fr Bauschadensforschung und angewandte Bauphysik. Basler, E., Zulassungsprfung fr Abdichtungssysteme fr die Basistunnel der AlpTransit Gotthard und Ltschberg, Bewerberunterlagen, Anforderungswerte 10.01.98 Corbet, S., King, J. (1993). Geotextiles in filtration and drainage, Thomas Telford Services, London, Great Britain. Fleler, P ., Bhni, H. (2001). The Sealing of Deep-seated Alpine Railway Tunnels New Evaluation Procedure for Waterproofing Systems, 11th Symposium Techtextil Hsuan, Y.G. (2000). Data Base of Field Incidents used to establish HDPE Geomembrane stress crack resistance specification, Geotextiles and Geomembranes, Vo.18, p. 155. Jablonka, M., Blond, E. (2009). Long Term Performance Requirements for HDPE Drainboards, Geosynthetics 2009, Salt Lake City, USA Kay, D., Blond, E., Mlynarek, J. (2004). Geosynthetics Durability: A Polymer Chemistry Issue, 57th Canadian Geotechnical Conference, GeoQuebec 2004. Koerner, R. M. (1997). Designing with Geosynthetics, 4th edition, Prentice-Hall, Inc., Upper Saddle River, NJ, USA Lustiger, A. (1996). Understanding Environmental Stress Cracking in Polyethylene, Medical Plastics and Biomaterials Magazine, p.8.
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STP Ltd
Roofing Moisture Control
Catching the Polyurethane Train

Jason Smith
M.S., Chemistry (Polymers and Coatings) , Sr. Research & Development Chemist, The Garland Company Inc, Cleveland, OH
ave you ever wondered what is meant by the curing process of polyurethanes, and why they become an effective water barrier once cured? Ever needed a better way of explaining how polyurethane coatings work without resorting to a chemistry book? Here is a useful analogy that will help explain what is going on with that film that comes out of a can of polyurethane. In the Pail For the purposes of this article, our primary subject is polyurethanes that are used to protect builtup, modified, metal, and single-ply roofs. We can illustrate what is going on with this class of polyurethanes at the molecular level by imagining a railroad yard. Our rail yard is made up of boxcars of identical length and build. The boxcar represents one segment of polyurethane polymer, which is where the majority of the properties of the film (flexibility, strength, etc.) reside. The couplings on either end of the boxcar represent the isocyanate reactive sites.
boxcars, and you get an idea of what is inside each pail of polyurethane. In actuality, the tracks and subsequent boxcar chains would be weaving in and out of each other in random 3-dimensional ribbons of polymer chains (more like spaghetti in a bowl), but to keep things simple, lets assume everything is linear and parallel, although at intervals, to help our illustration, there are switch tracks to go from one track to another. On The Roof The Curing Process Once the polyurethane coating is poured out onto the roof, another component is addedatmospheric moisture. Moisture is represented by the train engine. So, our rail yard of identical boxcars coupled at various lengths on miles and miles of spurs are gradually peppered with train engines that weave from spur to spur using the switch tracks. The engines sole job it is to link with either end of the long boxcars chains. The first engine links with any boxcar coupling it comes across; whichever is closest to it at the time. Likewise, the moisture reacts with the isocyanate end group on the polyurethane chain. This process releases carbon dioxide gas those bubbles you sometimes see on the surface of the coating and forms an amine. An amine group is very reactive, and will link rapidly with any other isocyanate reactive site in its vicinity. By way of illustration, the train then pulls the coupled boxcars to another line of boxcars to form a funny looking train where the engine is between two sets of boxcars. The engine becomes a urea once it has been coupled on either side with boxcars. The ends of the two chains of boxcars can be coupled further with other engines.
In a large rail yard, the tracks split off into many different spurs via side tracks. Picture our identical boxcars (polyurethane segment) on each track connected to each other in various lengths (chains). This boxcar-boxcar coupling is very strong, so once coupled, it doesnt come apart. One spur may have a chain of five boxcars, then a chain of thirteen, and maybe a chain of three, and so on, with each chain of boxcars independent of the others. Another spur will have four boxcars attached to one another, followed by a separate chain of 24, and so on. The number of individual boxcars is not important; what is important is the image of random chain lengths. Now, picture this rail yard spreading out for miles and miles with spur after spur of variously sized couplings of identical
The fast-reacting amine and isocyantate form a urea, a very rigid strong bond. The amount of train engines (moisture) present dictates how often the coupling occurs. The fewer the engines, the slower the coupling; the more engines, the faster the coupling, that is: The less moisture, the slower the cure, while more moisture speeds up the cure.
enough water evaporates that the walls of the droplets cannot maintain their shapes and break against other
So, drier areas like Arizona will cause a polyurethane coating to cure slower than in relatively more humid areas like Georgia in the summer. Gradually, with enough of this type of coupling, the rail yard becomes full of very large connected (crosslinked) chains. The side tracks become full and the engines (moisture) that arrive fresh on the scene are finding it more and more difficult to find any boxcars to couple with. In the coating, this is called the cure process. Pretty soon, the rail yard becomes so saturated with boxcars coupled to engines that everything grinds to a halt. The film is cured and will not allow water to pass through. It should be noted that temperature also plays a role in curing, but its effects are less dramatic. Generally speaking, the warmer the temperature, the faster the cure rate; with colder weather, the cure rate slows. How does the polyurethane curing process compare with the acrylic drying process? The big difference between a polyurethane and an acrylic coating is the fact that a polyurethane coating undergoes the chemical reaction previously described. In other words, it cures. During this reaction, carbon dioxide is released (bubbles), and the polyurethane chains become linked together with very strong urea bonds. Additionally, a secondary bonding phenomenon, hydrogen bonding, takes place between the polyurethane chains that are rubbing along each other like spaghetti in a bowl. This secondary bond also contributes to the coatings incredible strength. In contrast, most acrylic coatings undergo a drying process and do not cure, although they are often incorrectly described as curing systems. In an acrylic or acrylic-latex water-based coating, droplets of polymer are suspended in an emulsion surrounded by surfactant and water. Once the coating is applied, the water begins to evaporate, reducing the space between the droplets, and causing them to bump against other droplets (below at left). Soon,
droplets. The polymers within the broken droplets intermix, forming a film that hardens with continued drying. This filmforming process is called coalescence (below at right). The strength and durability of water-based coatings can be increased with performanceenhancing additives that induce chemical cross-linking when the globs break and release the polymer. However, this is often done as a post-addition on the job site, which involves wasted time for mixing. Furthermore, if the mixing is not thorough, spotty coalescence will occur. The cure occurs because a chemical reaction is taking place with the polymer, which causes linkage to another polymer.
Multicolor Steels (India) Pvt. Ltd
Multicolor Steels (India) Pvt. Ltd
stronger than most acrylic roof coatings on the market a testament to their curing ability. A strong polyurethane film will withstand freeze/thaw cycles, flash cooling during a hot summer days rain storm, and the day-to-day movement of a building. Conclusions To summarize, consider these points when evaluating a cured rooftop waterproofing solution: - Polyurethane systems provide an authentic cure; the film-forming process that takes place in acrylic systems is more accurately described as coalescence. - A cured polyurethane film provides a strong, resilient, waterproof surface. - The only true curing achievable with acrylic coatings most often occurs after their manufacture, as a second step, when an additive is stirred into the bucket of acrylic at the job site. Incomplete mixing will lead to spotty curing on the surface. In contrast, the only additive a single-component polyurethane coating needs to cure is moisture, which is supplied by the atmosphere. - Acrylic roof coatings tend to fail in ponding water; polyurethane films do not. - The more moisture in the air, the quicker the cure rate of polyurethane coatings. As a result, the polyurethane film cures more quickly in humid environments; in drier areas, polyurethanes will cure more slowly.
The upside to acrylic coatings is that they are inexpensive, waterbased (no solvent), and are relatively more UV stable than aromatic polyurethane coatings. The downside is that acrylic roof coatings are not as strong as cured polyurethane and will fail eventually in ponding water. Additives and other chemistry can be employed to slow the process, but in ponding water, acrylicbased coatings inevitably will begin to delaminate from their substrates. Properly formulated polyurethanes, once cured, maintain their integrity under ponding water. They are also much
Advertorial
Bitumode Excels in Different Horizons

itumode International Private Limited, formed in 2011 in India is a part of The modern group of companies, an industrial group based at Cairo, Egypt. Bitumode International Private Limited is setting up a state of the art manufacturing unit for APP & SBS membranes in DAHEJ Special Economic Zone at Bharuch in Gujarat. The modern group having a long history in the waterproofing industry for over 50 years (since 1950's) manufactures:
Modern Waterproofing Company A leader in the Middle East region in the field of manufacturing bituminous waterproofing membranes, the company is the largest in Egypt and one of the largest in the Middle East region with a market share of around 40% in Egypt and exporting to over 40 countries world wide. The current production is about 17 million square meters per year, and by 2012 when the Indian line is operational, this will increase to 30 million square meters per year. Modern Waterproofing Company has more than 250 products from cold flexibility of +5 C till -20 C. BITUMODE is a torch applied APP modified bituminous membrane that is reinforced with either fiberglass, polyester or fiberglass/polyester combinations strategically located in the modified bitumen compound to incorporate additional performance characteristics into the membrane. The net results are modified bitumen membranes with superior weather ability; strong and stable yet accommodating to mechanical and thermal loads. Over the years Modern has streamlined its process and products to suit different environmental conditions. Spuntex Company for Engineering Nonwovens: Spuntex is a high-technology producer of polyester (PET) nonwovens, both for geotextiles and for bituminous membranes reinforcement. It uses the spun bond technology (continuous
filament) which is an advanced technology that enables it to produce mats that are superior in all parameters to the traditional staple fiber-based technology. The know-how available in the company is only available in five plants worldwide, thus placing Spuntex among a highly exclusive group world wide. The products of the company can be used as geotextiles which are used as filter fabrics, for soil reinforcements, or for irrigation and drainage projects and pipe protection. Also, the products can be used as the carrier (reinforcement) of bituminous waterproofing membranes. Modern Plastics Company Modern Plastics Company is a company which works in two fields in the plastics industry: recycling and production of bitumen modifying polymer compounds, and production of extruded polystyrene (XPS) foam insulation. The company utilizes highlyadvanced recycling technologies. The purity of its end products is very close to that of virgin materials, thus enabling end users to save costs, while maintaining high quality standards of production. The production of extruded polystyrene foam insulation puts Modern Plastics Co. among a select few producers of this product in the Middle East region. The XPS foam insulation is used to insulate buildings from the heat of the sun thus providing energy savings and comfort for the occupants of the buildings.
BITUMINOUS MEMBRANES (APP and SBS) and PRIMERS; E X T R U D E D P O LY S T Y R E N E INSULATION (XPS), and SPUN BOND (CONTINOUS FILAMENT) NONWOVEN POLYESTER GEOTEXTILES.
The group can be a "single source" provider for the whole roof section. The group is in partnership with Citadel Capital, one of the Middle East's largest private equity investment firms with assets of over $ 8.3 billion. The group with its three operating industrial plants in Egypt is decentralizing its production operation so as to increase its proximity to markets. The fourth plant is being set up in India and the construction of another plant at Qatar will be starting soon. The Group has been certified with many quality certificates such as CE, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001, SOCOTEC, EOS, NRCA, BUREAU VERITAS. Members of the group are:

Bitumode International Pvt. Ltd.
505 Block K, Atrium Hotel Complex, Shooting Range, Road, Faridabad 121001. Delhi NCR, India. Tel: + 91129 4090700 Extn.: 1505 Email:mdindia@modernwaterproofing.com Website: www.bitumode.com
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Crafting Relationships Since 1960!
he foundation of the brand Ekbote lies on the four strong pillars of excellence in quality, style, selection and qualitative customer service. The evolution of a brand is often measured in the rising levels of progress. As one of the oldest furniture brands in our country, Ekbote furniture has show cased impeccable quality, outstanding
growth and advanced furniture style since 1960. With an ultra equipped factory spread over 6 acres (250,000 sq. ft.), at Ranje village, 23 km away from the city of Pune, Ekbote has added a distinct touch to corporate interiors. Numerous renowned brands in Hospitality, Automobile Engineering, Banking, IT and Construction have
GovindEkbote
Managing Director
trusted the solidity and preferred the aesthetics of Ekbote's Furniture. Mr. Govind Ekbote the technical brain behind the Ekbote's likes challenges so in order to overcome the recurring problem of warpage and bending of very tall wardrobe shutters, by using the conventional Plywood he rapidly did trials, cladding the tubular boards with 3mm decorative Veneered Plywood to make a 8 foot high wardrobe shutter in 30mm thickness. The outcome was perfectly balanced shutter with no bending or warping. Additionally the 30mm shutter was very light in weight due to tubular boards inside. Due to it Ekbote Logs & Lumbers P . Ltd. executed a large project order with 10,000 wardrobe shutters in a span of 3 months with a smile on the client's face. With this experience of success Ekbote's is developing a hybrid construction material and willing to share the knowhow with any furniture unit, who are interested to eliminate the warping problem in shutters to provide furniture with great stability

Govind Ekbote
Email:govindekbote@ekbotefurniture.com
8 feet high cupboard Shutter
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Esquire - CMAC Pvt.Ltd
Green Buildings - Thermal Insulation
reen buildings, as per ECBC code, should incorporate suitable thermal insulation to save energy. 'Green' buildings are eco friendly and can contribute towards a cleaner environment by reducing the amount of energy used to light, heat, cool and operate buildings and GHG and other harmful emissions. 'Heating and Cooling' account for 50% - 70% of the total energy in commercial establishments, whereas 'Lighting and other appliances' account for 10% - 30% in most buildings. Inadequate thermal insulation material and air leakages will lead to energy waste. Good thermal insulation saves money and energy resources. Recognizing the need for green buildings, many individuals as well as organizations are stepping ahead and putting efforts towards increasing the awareness of their importance and the challenges that need to be tackled. The Green building cost of construction goes higher by approx 15 20%, but at the same time these Green buildings save energy approximately 30% of the annual energy consumption. Hence, there is a need to create awareness regarding the initial cost of con-
struction and the long terms savings for any project. Builders as well as users should remember that life cycle benefit of a Green design is more than make up for the additional initial costs. In order to appreciate the cost effectiveness of green buildings over a period of time, adopting the practice of separating capital and operating cost is necessary. Requirements of Roof Thermal Insulation Material Low Water Absorption Environment Friendly Energy Saving Light weight reducing dead weight over the deck Long Lasting/ More Durable Good Compressive Strength No Heat Transmission to Surroundings Easy Installation
top, the roof surface does not accumulate the heat and no heat transfer will take place. When the thermal insulation material is used, the room remains cooler in summer and warmer in winter than ambient. Because of thermal insulation, transfer of heat between inside and outside the room is restricted thus resulting in less energy requirement for maintaining the desired temperature in the room. Thermal insulation also prevents the thermal stresses on roof's material of construction due to which roof decks tend to develop cracks. Thermal insulation reduces the cracks to a great extent. Thermal insulation like Extruded Polystyrene, PIR are light weight material compared to conventional systems like Brick bat coba, Mud Faska and hence reduces the dead weight on the roof. XPS and PIR insulation boards are nontoxic, environmental friendly and recyclable. Roof thermal insulation reduces the inside temperature from 5oC to 10oC depending on outside temperature, insulation thickness etc. Thermal Insulation of buildings has become one of the key practices across the globe to effectively manage heat incidence in the buildings. With the right materials used as thermal barriers in buildings it has helped reduce energy consumptions having a deep impact on the environment and economy as a whole.
Thermal Insulation Function Mainly the upper roof surface is exposed for the longer duration directly to solar radiation. The heat absorbed by the roof is gradually transferred to the rooms directly below the roof. If thermal insulation is used on the roof

Texsa India Ltd.
345, Ground Floor, Udyog Vihar Phase II, Gurgaon - 122016. Haryana Ph: +91-124-4052078/79,
Fax: +91-124-4052080,
E-mail: texsaindia@texsa.in Web: www.texsa.com
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Thermal Insulation of Buildings Conserve Energy, Save Environment

he rapid pace of urbanization leading to massive construction in the building sector has led to an adverse impact on the environment. Buildings consume a major portion of electricity generated and put a lot of stress on the society at large in terms of electricity shortage and emission of greenhouse gases. The demandsupply ratio of electricity is increasing by the day, putting lot of pressure on the already fast depleting fossil fuel reserves and resulting in steep increase in the ever increasing electricity prices. Today, it is no longer an option but a necessity to adopt energy saving measures. The maximum energy demand 5070% in a building is for conditioning (heating or cooling) the interiors. Building Envelope (roof, walls & floor) contributes to 60-75% of the heat gain/loss in a building and is the major contributor to the high load on airconditioning. Insulation of building envelope has become one of the key practices across the globe to effectively manage heat incidence in the buildings and save on the high energy cost. LEED-India, the green rating system for buildings advocate overdeck insulation for roofs as against the conventional way of under-deck insulation. In under-deck thermal insulation the terrace slab gets heated up by direct solar radiation and this heat passes through the under-deck insulation
PARAPET WALL EXTERNAL COATING MASTERSEAL 200H/ 300H
TOP FINISH / WEARING COURSE THERMOCRETE SLOPEBUILT-UP INSULATION PERIPOR / ELASTOPOR / ELASTOSPRAY
RCC ROOF SUBSTRATE
WATERPROOFING MEMBRANE MASTERSEAL / MASTERPREN / CONIROFF
Typical Insulation Built-up for Roof
and increases the load on the airconditioning system. Roof Insulation In over-deck insulation, a thermal insulation with waterproofing is provided over the RCC. This provides a barrier against direct solar heat on RCC roof slab preventing the slab from heating up. Over-deck insulation not only avoids thermal bridging but also increases the life span of building due to decreased heat stresses in slab. Insulation materials like Water Resistant Expanded Polystyrene, Fire Retardant Expanded Polystyrene, Rigid Polyurethane Insulation & Extruded Polystyrene are globally the most effective and widely used building insulation materials. Materials like Rockwool & glass-wool using formaldehyde as resin - are carcinogenic (may cause cancer) - and banned in Europe & U. S. BASF offers a wide range of insulation materials for over-deck suitable for different usage conditions. PERIPOR Board: The Waterresistant insulation. Water absorption has a significant detrimental effect on thermal insulation. Peripor Board has
been developed specifically for overdeck applications with extremely low water absorption. ELASTOPOR Board: Thermal Insulation PUR Board. Polyurethane Resin (PUR) based thermal insulation boards offer best in class insulation performance. Higher densities make the boards tough and can be used in trafficked system built-ups. MASTERSEAL 755 SPF: Spray applied PU Foam Insulation. This thermal insulation is spray applied at site and offers a monolithic insulation layer Spray application is especially suited for complex substrate shapes and confined spaces. Wall Insulation: Though a major contribution to heat gain in a building is from walls, still, wall insulation has just been neglected. Some traditional ways of providing thermal insulation to the walls have been in the form of using light coloured stone tiles on exteriors to minimize sunlight, double-wall with air cavity, cavity wall with insulation material as infill, insulating panels on interiors, etc. However, each of these methods have
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their own disadvantages as apart from not offering a high thermal insulation, they have the problem of rain water seepage, water filling the cavity, poor indoor air quality, decrease of valuable internal space, etc. BASF offers SENERGY External Insulation & Finishing System (EIFS) on the walls that useNEOPOR - Fire Retardant Expanded Polystyrene as insulation. EIFS is done on the exterior wall on the outside face and combines the performance of insulation with aesthetics as the system offers a variety of textures and color shadesfor exterior.The advantage of EIF apart from its effectiveness is that it can be applied to new & existing structures, is virtually seamless and offers design flexibility, shapes, colors and textures. Conclusion: The state governments and town
planners should make building envelope insulation mandatory and electricity connection and building occupancy certificate should have building insulation as a pre-requisite. Today, global companies like BASF are offering to the Indian construction industry, new products, technology, systems and application expertise as a one-stop 360O solution for the building envelope insulation. Adopting Green Building practices will substantially reduce or eliminate adverse environmental impacts
and improve upon existing unsustainable design, construction and operational practices.

BASF India Limited Construction Chemical Division
Plot No. 37, Chandivali Farm Road, Chandivali, Andheri (E), Mumbai - 400072. Tel: +91-22-28580200 Fax: +91-22-24878381 E-mail: construction-india@basf.com Web: www.basf-cc.co.in
A New Material Exalted by Butterfly Wings for Energy-efficient Buildings

A new material inspired by butterfly wings repels water and gleams with brilliant colour. Like iridescent butterflies, the material uses tiny structures on its surface to achieve both qualities. The material could someday go into sensors that regulate the interior temperature of "smart buildings," said Shu Yang, a University of Pennsylvania chemist whose research group made the new material. Colour may come quickly to mind when people think about butterflies, but the little flutterers are remarkably waterresistant, too. They have to fly, so they cannot afford to have any dirt on the wings, he said. The surface of butterfly wings has minuscule bumps that cause any water that hits the wing to form beads and roll away, Yang explained. That cleans off the dirt. Yang and a team of architects and engineers are looking to make a sturdy sensor that changes color in response to temperature. The colour change would trigger a computer program that automatically adjusts the heaters and air conditioners of a smart building. This is done with to promote energy-efficient buildings, Yang said.
Roljack Industries
Energy Efficiency
New Technical Solutions for Energy Efficient Buildings

Sonjoy Deb, B.Tech,Civil
Associate Editor
he ecological theories, from 1866 up until today, have contributed to the diffusion of a better awareness as far as our actions on a global level are concerned. The attention towards themes regarding ecology and sustainability in the last fifty years has developed with different intensities in parallel to a series of political and historical events, such as the first big energy crisis or the establishment that the hole in the ozone layer exists in 1985. The concept of sustainability has become a key idea in national and international discussions following the publication of the Brundtland Report (1987) and the 1992 Rio Earth Summit. It was given further prominence in the context of the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development held in Johannesburg and with the most recent Copenhagen Conference of 2009.
Considering the concept of sustainability the building environment is responsible of almost 40% of the global emissions. What can be defined as sustainable or ecoarchitecture represents an attempt to respond to global environmental problems and to reduce environmental impacts due to the building and housing industry, which include the exhaustion of natural resources, the emission CO2 and other greenhouse gases. Major constituents of energy efficiency of buildings The ratio of energy input to the calculated or estimated amounts of energy required to cover the various requirements relating to the standardized use of a building serves as the measure of energy efficiency. According to EU Directive Energy Performance of Building Directive (EPBD), the
Energy Efficiency
following thermal and electrical forms of energy are considered when determining the energy efficiency of a building (Refer Figure 1): - - - - - - Heating DHW (domestic hot water) Cooling Ventilation Lighting Auxiliary energy
refurbishment projects and new buildings are also ways for making energy efficient buildings. The first four processes still commonly be used in all the buildings given little consideration of the initial cost aspect as is thus discussed here below Multifunctional faade systems Multifunctional Faade Systems are designed to be used in modular construction methods with the highest possible level of prefabrication. The main application is for new development of large-scale residential and office buildings and for a fast thermal refurbishment of the existing building stock. The topic on multifunctional faade systems is divided into five categories, to give a general overview of the numerous systems that are available on the market. Main differences lie in integration of materials, renewable energy or solar energy concepts. The faade systems are as shown below (a) Wood faade systems- These Multifunctional faade Systems focus on renewable building materials (e.g.: wood construction) and dismantling and recycling compatible construction systems. Refer Figure 2 & 3.
Figure 1: Energy Efficiency of a Building without cooling
Thermal and electrical energy (e.g. heat and electricity) should be kept to a minimum to achieve a high degree of energy efficiency. The energy efficiency value for an individual building is determined by comparing it to reference values. It could, for example, be documented in an energy pass for the building. Primary energy consumption in developing countries Buildings account for 41% of primary energy consumption. Of which 85% is used for room heating and room cooling as well as 15% for electrical energy (in particular, for lighting). Overall, buildings account for 35% of primary energy use to achieve comfortable temperatures and 6% for electrical energy. That amounts to a significant portion. Key Principles for Constructing Energy Efficient buildings Following are the key processes/ technical solutions for making energy efficient buildings. 1. 2. 3. 4. Multifunctional faade systems Innovative cooling concepts for office buildings Energy efficient building design Sustainable building materials
Figure 2: Basic concept of the Wood Faade System
Figure 3: Application of Wood Faade (Pilotproject Norway Risor Technical College)
However Photovoltaic/Thermal Systems (PV/T), Solar heating & cooling, New technologies for heat pumps & Mechanical ventilation systems with heat recovery for
(b) Solar-active faade systems- In this category solar radiation is used and stored in passive energy concepts. Refer Figure 4 & 5.
Energy Efficiency
Figure 4: Application of solar active faade system
(e) Green faade systems- The large potential of building facades in the cities on the one hand and the need to find solutions for overheating, water balance, fine dust, biodiversity etc. is a main driver to develop new products for vertical greening systems. For architects and builders many different forms of vertical greening products are available. Refer Figure 8.
Figure 8: Green Faade System
Innovative cooling concepts for office buildings As the cooling demand is always a result of the climatic conditions on the building site, cooling strategies have to be adapted to regional climate characteristics. Nevertheless measures and strategies for the reduction of cooling energy are unique principles to be applied to almost all climate zones. In general there are two strategies to reduce the cooling demand in buildings: - Passive cooling strategies - Active cooling strategies (like solar cooling) Passive Cooling Strategies For new projects passive cooling system can be adopted in the building design itself by designing the size and orientation of transparent building elements in such a manner as to reduce the solar gain of the buildings and increasing the mass storage capacity of the building. Office buildings with heavy building elements (walls, ceilings) have a better cooling energy performance than light weight buildings. The mass storage capacity can however be increased for refurbished projects also by using panels are based on PCM (Phase Change Materials) working with latent storage principles. Most of the PCM`s are micro encapsulated paraffin. Refer Figure 9 and 10.
Figure 5: Basic concept of solar active faade system, Left: concept: above: summer, below winter / Right
(c) Energy faade systems- Optimised building equipment (heating, cooling and ventilation) and/or renewable energy are integrated in these faade panels, which are mainly used for new development and office buildings. Refer Figure 6.
Figure 6: Application of Energy Faade System
(d) Hybrid faade systems- In hybrid faade system new smart-material, such as nano-, aerogel and vacuum insulated panels, are integrated. Most of these materials are still very young technologies and further development and research is necessary. Most promising development can be found for Vacuum Insulated Panels. Refer Figure 7.
Figure 7: Hybrid Faade System
Figure 9: Innovative sunblind, enabling daylight control and protection against solar radiation. Right picture: sunblind with innovative shading and light control concept
Reliance Industries Ltd
Energy Efficiency
Figure 10: Comparison of the heat storage capacity of PCM (product: Micronal BASF) and conventional building materials.
The use of energy efficient lighting and equipment with low rejected heat (like LED lamps, computers, etc.) on one hand contributes to a reduction of electrical energy and on the other hand reduces the internal cooling load of office buildings. Technical equipments in combination with exhaust-air plants are further solution for the decrease of the cooling load. Refer Figure 11 for such application.
Figure 13: Earth to Air Heat Exchanger (EAHE) System
Energy efficient building design In general there are following strategies for the design of energy efficient buildings: - - - - Minimization of losses Maximization of solar gains Heating case Minimization of solar gains Cooling case Minimization of electricity demand for artificial lighting
Figure 11: Lamp with exhaust-air
Passive cooling strategies using environmental energy includes TABS (Thermo-Active-Building-Systems) and Earth to Air Heat Exchangers (EAHE). With TABS a maximum cooling demand around 480 Wh/m2d can be managed and with EAHE a maximum cooling demand of around 300 Wh/m2d can be managed. Refer Figure 12 and 13 for TABS and EAHE systems respectively.
The first design relevant measure should be the reduction of heating losses by minimization of the shape/volume ratio (Refer Figure 14). In the heating period a maximization of passive solar gains should be the main target to reduce the heating energy demand. Optimized interaction of orientation, size of windows and disposable thermal mass are the key elements (Refer Figure 15). Orientation and size of transparent building elements (windows) have important influence on the cooling demand. Intelligent shading elements with different orientation (e.g. south windows with horizontal elements, west and east windows with vertical elements) are further measures for the reduction of solar gains. For high rise buildings natural ventilation concepts by wind are innovative alternatives to conventional mechanical ventilation systems (Refer 16 & 17). Minimisation of electricity demand for artificial lighting is a must for sustainability point of view. The development of innovative daylight concepts is the most important strategy to decrease the energy demand for lighting. Daylight concepts always have to be considered in combination with aspects for heating and cooling (Refer Figure 18). The intensive use of solar energy
Figure 12: TABS system mechanism.
Figure 14: Minimisation of losses Through Compactness in building design
Energy Efficiency
requires a comprehensive integration of solar panels in the architectural design concept and influences the design of buildings strongly. Solar panels can be mounted on walls and roofs, whereas in urban context roofs offer better conditions (Refer Figure 19).
Figure 15: Maximisation of solar gains, school building in Vella, canton Grisons, Switzerland
Figure 19: Solar panels (PV), passive night cooling and integrated day light concept Figure 16: Passive cooling (without mechanical energy) through stack ventilation in the night
Figure 17: Natural ventilation concept by wind, Head European Central Bank, Frankfurt
Figure 20: Building materials and environment, 1= health aspects in the construction process, 2= health aspects concerning indoor air quality in the use stage, 3= environmental aspects within the life cycle: emissions to ground, water, air, flora and fauna
(a) Slagstar Eco Concrete The major CO2 emission component amongst the building materials used in concrete is cement. Slagstar is cement, which is mainly based on slag sand. With these measures reductions of up to 80 90% of CO2-equivalents are possible. By the use of 1 m3 of Slagstar Eco Concrete savings of 0.18 tons of CO2- equivalents in comparison to normal concrete are feasible. Slagstar Eco Concrete can be used for all types of concrete and all applications. (b) RC Recycled Concrete Recycling of building materials can also decrease environmental impacts. For many technical applications recycled concrete (RC) is a sustainable alternative to conventional concrete, reducing the use of primary energy, raw materials, freshwater and land. The percentage of recycled concrete used in diverse construction projects is up to 90%.Refer Figure 21. (c) Innovative insulation materials mineral foam boards Most thermal insulation composite systems use EPS
Figure 18: Sunblind with daylight reflector
Sustainable building materials Building materials influence the health of the workers during the extraction of resources and the construction process as well as the health of the users of the building. They also influence the environment directly (e.g. use/depletion of resources and energy, impacts by emissions). Refer Figure 20 for some of the most important emission aspects that should be considered during an assessment of building materials. Some of the of innovative, sustainable building products are as discussed below:-
Energy Efficiency
Conclusion Well-developed building construction standards are now available for low-energy houses that have proven themselves. The technology is ready to use yet it is still going to take a number of decades before the technology is deployed throughout the world. New buildings should only be built based on future-oriented low-energy standards and equipped with energy-saving building automation and control functions. Developed nations building inventory cannot be transitioned to state-of-the art energy-saving construction technology either in the short or medium-term. It is only possible over the long term with available construction capacity. And the required costs will certainly be enormous. Some existing buildings cannot even be transitioned over the long term to state-of the- art construction technology for cultural as well as historical reasons. With regard to energy efficiency, we will still have to deal with a less-than-optimum building environment and do the best we can. Reference
1 ENERGYbase, pos architekten schneider ZT KG, Vienna 2 http://www.bearth-deplazes.ch 3 Wirz, Heinz (editor): Bearth & Deplazes, Konstrukte/Constructs. Quart Verlag GmbH, Luzern, 2005, page 64 4 A plus ZT GmbH, Weiz, architect Heimo Staller 5 http://www.kleinezeitung.at/allgemein/bauenwohnen /2512922/stadt-zukunft.story 6 Directive 2010/31/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 May 2010 on the energy performance of buildings 7 Staller, Heimo; 2011 8 CEN TC 350 Sustainability of construction works Sustainability assessment of buildings sustainability, 2008 9 Staller, Heimo; 2011 10 Kleindienst, Land Steiermark - Fachabteilung 17 A Energiewirtschaft u. allgemeine technische Angele-genheiten (2008). Gesamtheitliche Planung von Gebuden eine Existenzfrage (?) 11 Kerschberger, Sick (2007). Innovative Sanierung spart Energie. Deutsches Architektenblatt 05/07 12 Micronal PCM, BASF Company (2011). http://www.micronal. de/portal/basf/ien/dt.jsp?setCursor=1_290798 13 A plus ZT GmbH, Weiz, architect Heimo Staller 14 Lamp with exhaust-air, Radolux Gesellschaft fr Lichttechnik mbH (2011). http://www.radolux.de/ 15 www.tesenergyfacade.com/index.php 16 www.naumannstahr.info/ 17 www.gap-solution.at/ 18 glassx.ch/index.php?id=405 19 Lang, BINE Projektinfo 08 / 2004. ISSN 0937 8367 20 www.biotope-city.net/
Figure 22: Houses constructed with Timber framing
Figure 21: Application of RC: ETH e-science Lab, Zurich, Switzerland
(expanded polystyrene) as an insulation material. EPS is mainly based on crude oil, which has a number of negative environmental impacts (high primary energy demand non renewable and high CO2-equivalents, recycling problems). (d) Timber products Being a renewable and CO2-neutral material, timber offers a high potential for sustainable construction. For example 1 m3 of timber stores around 1 tonne of CO2. Refer Figure 22 for Timber form application for building construction.
21 www.sci-network.eu/
Toshniwal Mixer: Powder Wall Putty Manufacturing

oshniwal offers Twin shaft paddle mixer works on Fluidized Zone mixing principle, More no of mixing tools, faster movement of particle and zero dead spot features helps to homogeneously blend the white cement, Fillers and powder additive etc., very preciously, to achieve the desired demanding properties such as:
Better binding properties More durable Add strength to wall Water Resistant No scale formation
Toshniwal Mixer
The resultant better homogeneous mixing effect of Toshniwal Mixer assures the white cement based putty is used to fill the uneven surface of cement Plaster and concrete wall, the wall putty provides smooth and strong finish To the walls for further application of all types of paints, the cement based Wall putty got better binding properties hence it is more durable, being Water resistant it is ideal for keeping the paints safe and eliminates any Chance of flaking. The smooth white finish gives a brilliant look to the paints The Trial facilities with demo Mixer unit, scale up production facilities with medium capacity Mixer will be provided. The Economy Mixer unit will be offered those who intended for start up unit. The Mixer has proven record for the building materials and construction care products like
Building Material Dry Mortar Renders Wall Plasters Wall Putty (Dry) Floor Screeds Skim Coats Blended Cement Construction Care Integral Water Proofing Compound Grouts Flour Hardener Repairing Mortar Tile Joining Compound Thermal insulation products Fire Proof Cement Wall Paper Compounds
Further details from: M/s. Toshniwal Systems & Instruments Pvt. Ltd., 267, Kilpauk Garden Road, Chennai - 600 010, India Phone No: 91-44-26445626 / 26448983 Email: mixer@toshniwal.net / Web : www.toshniwal.net
Green Cement
The Carbon Negative Cement Technology

Associate Editor
Cement is needed to satisfy basic human needs, and there is no obvious substitute, so there is a trade-off between development and sustainability. By replacing the calcium carbonates used in cement formulation with magnesium silicates, and by using a lowtemperature production process that runs on biomass fuels can be developed a new class of cement that offers performance and cost parity with ordinary Portland Cement, but with a negative carbon footprint.
ement is needed to satisfy basic human needs, and there is no obvious substitute, so there is a trade-off between development and sustainability. Concrete is the second most used product on the planet, after water. Apparently, almost one ton of concrete is used for each person in the world each year. The amount of concrete used in construction around the world is more than double that of the total of all other building materials, including wood, steel, plastic and aluminum. Port land cement is the main component in concrete and is produced everywhere and also
regarded as the most widely used construction material in the world. Each year, the concrete industry produces approximate 12 billion tons of concrete and uses about 1.6 billion tons of portland cement worldwide. Cement production consumes considerable amounts of nature materials such as limestone and sand. The main problem with cement is its production in terms of the high amount of energy and carbon fuel that are used and the gases like carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide that are released into the atmosphere and affect our air quality. The cement industry accounts for 1.5% of nitrogen
Green Cement
oxide emissions and create 71.6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions. These issues could significantly influence the effects of global warming and peoples health. Energy consumption is the biggest environmental concern with cement and concrete production. Cement production is one of the most energy intensive of all industrial manufacturing processes. Including direct fuel use for mining and transporting raw materials, cement production takes about six million Btus for every ton of cement. Green House Gas Emission There are two very different sources of carbon dioxide emissions during cement production. Combustion of fossil fuels to operate the rotary kiln is the largest source: approximately 3/4 tons of CO2 per ton of cement. But the chemical process of calcining limestone into lime in the cement kiln also produces CO2: CaCO3 CaO + CO2 limestone lime + carbon dioxide This chemical process is responsible for roughly 1/2 ton of COCO2 per ton of cement, according to researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Combining these two sources, for every ton of cement produced, 1.25 tons of CO2 is released into the atmosphere. In the United States, cement production accounts for approximately 100 million tons of CO2emissions, or just under 2% of our total human-generated CO2. Worldwide, cement production now accounts for more than 1.6 billion tons of CO2over8% of total CO2 emissions from all human activities. Refer Figure 1 below for the CO2 emission data available in leading researches.
Ibs CO2 perton of cement
CO2 emissions from energy use CO2 emissions from calcining of limestone Total CO2 emissions
which releases a large amount of carbon dioxide (CO2). The process could even be used to help a power plant sequester its emissions, The companies new process is said to deliver an environmentally-friendly cement that captures and stores CO2, while decreasing the amount of emissions associated with making the cement, according to the article. In addition, it would provide a new clean material for green buildings. The scientists have developed a way to makegreen cement that actually removes greenhouse gas from the air so for every unit of carbon that traditional cement emits. The technology can be used in large industrial sites such as coal-fired power plants where there is a huge emission of CO2. However in all the new developments it has to be kept in mind that any alternative to Portland cement faces the following challenges - It has to be used in the same way as Portland cement, - It has to develop similar mechanical and durability properties at the same rate as Portland cement and - It has to develop its mechanical and durability properties through hydration rather than carbonation with CO2. Carbon Negative Cement Technology By replacing the calcium carbonates used in cement formulation with magnesium silicates, and by using a low-temperature production process that runs on biomass fuels can be developed a new class of cement that offers performance and cost parity with ordinary Portland Cement, but with a negative carbon footprint. A very recent research is aimed at developing a new cement that will offer performance and cost parity with ordinary Portland cement, but with a carbon negative footprint. The cement is based on magnesium oxide (MgO) and is well positioned to reduce cement industry carbon emissions. The cement is a blend of MgO with hydrated magnesium carbonates and pozzolanic materials. There are several potentially suitable hydrated magnesium carbonates that can be used with the cement and the company has developed a specialised reactor for producing them. Inclusion of hydrated magnesium carbonates in the cement composition has two advantages. Firstly, they control the cement hardening properties by modifying the MgO hydration mechanism and the physical properties of the resulting hydration products. Secondly, they decrease the cements carbon footprint as they absorb CO2 during their production and therefore have acarbon negative footprint (absorption of 300 500 kg CO2/t of carbonate). Production process Magnesium is the eighth most abundant element and constitutes about 2% of the Earths crust. The carbon negative cements production process is based on accelerated carbonation of magnesium silicates to produce MgO. The production process has three steps. During the first step, magnesium silicates are carbonated under elevated levels of temperature
Ibs CO2 per cu. Yd. of concrete 381 250
Percent of total CO2 60 40
1,410 997
2,410
361
100
Figure 1: CO2 Emissions from Cement and Concrete Production
Sustainable Innovations in Cement Production Concerns for the sustainable development in the cement and concrete industries is becoming a popular area of research amongst the technocrats. From the discussions we had so far, it can be concluded that CO2 emission during cement production is the major concern. Need for development of cement with lesser CO2 emission of without CO2 emission is a need of the day. One of the immerging concrete technologies for sustainable development is to use green materials for construction. The green materials are considered as materials that use less natural resource and energy and generate less CO2. They are durable and recyclable and require less maintenance. A US based company is developing a new process to clean up the manufacture of cement,
Green Cement
and pressure(i.e. 170 C/<<150 bar) to produce magnesium carbonate. In the second step, the magnesium carbonate produced is heated at low temperature (~700 C) to produce MgO, with the CO2 generated being recycled back into the first step. During the third step, part of the MgO produced is used to produce the hydrated magnesium carbonates required using either the CO2 contained in the flue gases from the fuels used to power the production process, or CO2 derived from external sources. The process has no need for an energy intensive milling process. Suitable magnesium silicates, e.g. olivine and serpentine, are widely dispersed with accessible worldwide reserves estimated to exceed 20000 billion tonne; there are known resources in at least16 of the top 20 cement markets. Magnesium silicates are amenable to open pit surface mining and so can be extracted in a similar way to limestone and at a similar cost. The potential for low cost mining combined with the low energy consumption of the process means that the cement can offer cost parity with Portland cement before taking account of any value attributable to carbon dioxide. Figure 2 a & b shows concrete blocks made with Novacem (A UK based company) carbon negative cement.
(b) Figure 2 (a & b): Concrete Blocks prepared with carbon negative cement. (Courtesy: Novacem)
Energy and Carbon Foot Print The carbon footprint of such cement is not dependent on carbonation during use. Its footprint is achieved during manufacture by the combination of the following features: - Use of magnesium silicates minerals, which eliminates theCO2 emissions from raw materials processing. - Use of a production process that not only requires less energy but also lower temperatures and allows the use of fuels with low energy content or carbon intensity (i.e. biomass). - Use of hydrated magnesium carbonates in the cement composition that absorb CO2 during their production and therefore have a carbon negative footprint. The final CO2 balance will depend on the fuel mix used and the amount of hydrated magnesium carbonates included. Use of higher amounts of hydrated magnesium carbonates in the cement composition can further decrease its carbon footprint without adversely impacting cement performance. Current calculations estimate that the carbon footprint will be in the range of -100 kg CO2/tonne cement to +100 kg CO2/ tonne cement; any point within this range is astep-change improvement compared to the emissions of conventional cement production. Manufacturing difference of carbon negative cement than standard cement Standard cement, also known as Portland cement, is made by heating limestone or clay to around 1,5000C. The processing of the ingredients releases 0.8 tonnes of CO2 per tonne of cement. When it is eventually mixed with water for use in a building, each tonne of cement can absorb up to 0.4 tonnes of CO2, but that still leaves an overall carbon footprint per tonne of 0.4 tonnes. Carbon negative cement, uses magnesium silicates which emit no CO2 when heated. Its production process also runs at much lower temperatures - around 6500C. This leads to
Green Build Products (I) Pvt.Ltd
MMI India Pvt.Ltd
Green Cement
total CO2 emissions of up to 0.5 tonnes of CO2 per tonne of cement produced. But the carbon negative cement formula absorb far more CO2 as it hardens - about 1.1 tonnes. So the overall carbon footprint is negative i.e. the cement removes 0.6 tonnes of CO2 per tonne used. (Courtesy: http://novacem. com/) Conclusion Cement consumption is rapidly rising, especially in newly industrialized countries, and its already responsible for 5 percent of human-made carbon dioxide. Hence efforts should be made to produce green cement either by changing the composition of cement or by design of an innovative manufacturing technology to produce cement. The development in most of the countries is taking place in large scale and cement is one of the key components in that, but at the same time engineers and researchers should give their due attention to the environment problem also and to the subject of producing green cement. The real challenge in adopting and using carbon negative concrete is the supply chain, who do you need to partner with to take it to market? The million-dollar question is what are the applications of it? If it ends up as decorative applications such as floor tiles, its quite interesting but not as much as if you get into load-
bearing structural stuff. Researchers should find out all the answers and make people related to the construction industry aware of its usefulness. Engineers and contractors should employ this technology for use in all cement applications as a cost-effective alternative to Portland cement, to roll-out the technology across the cement industry through licensing, and to create significant value for the industry through reduced CO2 emissions. Reference
- - - - http://www.cementindustry.co.uk/main.asp?page=113(29 August 2006) http://www.wbcsdcement.org/concrete_misc.asp (30 August 2006) http://www.cement.ca/cement.nsf/e/ Humphreys, K and Mahasenan, M. 2002. Towards a Sustainable Cement Industry Sub study 8: Climate Change. World Business Council for Sustainable Development: Cement Sustainability Initiative. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonne (18 August 2006) http://www.groundwork.org.za/Publications/Reports/ SpecialReports/Cement.pdf http://www.wbcsdcement.org/pdf/tf2/cementconc.pdf http://novacem.com
- - - -
Jeevan Products
Venus Equipment & Tools Pvt.Ltd
Solar Off-Grid Application
Challenges and Opportunities in Off-Grid Solar application

Chaitanya Raj Goyal
'Switching - Solar':
The off-grid challenge: Indian domain India is sitting on huge untapped solar Photo Voltaic off-grid opportunities, given its need to provide energy to vast untapped remote rural areas, the scope of providing backup power to cell towers and its inherent potential to replace precious fossil fuels. Also given the fact that over 400 million people do not have access to grid connected electricity, off-grid captive commercial solar power is an approximately 15 GW opportunity for India, but its development will depend majorly on the solar Renewable Energy Credit (REC) market. Majority solar generation efforts in the nation have focused on replacing fossil fuel-based power generation for mainstream electrical applications (ongrid power). However, in regions where the distribution grid infrastructure itself is lacking, another market is rapidly growing for domestic and commercial applications that are not connected to the main electricity grid. Such applications are frequently powered by batteries, kerosene or diesel generators all of which have a disproportionately high environmental impact as well as a high cost compared to standard on-grid electricity. The off-grid opportunities in India are significant, given the cost involved in off-grid applications when compared to huge financial investments to be made to set up grids. The potential of replacing huge usage of kerosene used for lighting rural homes also makes offgrid applications desirable. Moreover, specific government incentives to promote off grid applications, rapid expansion of wireless telecom and telecom companies' desire to reduce operating cost for base stations (due to diesel cost and losses) are also expected to prompt growth in off-grid opportunities. Exploring the de-centralized grid: Understanding Indian Solar market The benefits of electrification to rural
lobal access to electricity over the last few years has remained remarkably static and this situation is currently projected to barely change in the foreseeable future. The problem is particularly acute in rapidly developing areas of Asia and Africa, where a combination of extensive population growth and industrial development is placing huge demands on the existing electrical infrastructure. Few decades ago, when the Photo Voltaic (PV) solar technology was commercially developed in the most industrialized and technologically advanced nations, it was never thought that most of the potential customers of off-grid PV would not be the developed nations but the developing world where nearly 1.4 billion people, representing 22% of the earth's population, do not have access to electricity. Between 500,000 and 1 million persons in the developing world are currently using off-grid PV technologies.
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communities and thus the potential uses of off-grid photo voltaic (PV) are many. Few examples of off-grid PV applications include remote village electrification, power irrigation pumpsets, telecom towers, back-up power generation, captive power generation and city, street, billboard and highway lighting. India's off-grid solar photovoltaic (PV) market has three major segments: captive power plants (where the majority of generation is consumed at the source), telecom towers, and rural electrification. The market potential for these PV segments has created an off-grid solar market in India forecasted to install more than 1GW per year by 2016. Captive Power Plants - In India, captive power plants (where the majority of generation is consumed at the source) with a total capacity of approximately 30 GW are installed, which is equivalent to around 20 percent of the country's total installed capacity. This capacity increased annually by 1.6 GW over the last five years, due to the ascent of the Indian economy and the lack of power quality and reliability from the grid. Thus far, captive power has consisted mainly of thermal power plants fueled by coal, gas or diesel. However, there is potential for approximately 15 GW of solar captive power to supply electricity to commercial and public entities, educational and medical institutions, hotels, upper-class households, IT-service providers as well as shopping malls. Thus far, 2.5 megawatts of solar captive power plants have been installed in India. Manufacturers estimate the payback period of solar captive power plants to be two to seven years, depending on diesel prices, location and system design. Telecom Towers - According to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), India currently has 3,100,000 tower sites out of which over 30,000 are in off-grid areas. However, the majority are run by diesel generators, whether on-grid or off, due to the intermittent power supply. The total annual consumption of diesel fuel by these towers
Solar powered parking meter
is 2 billion liters, as a result of which 5 megatons of CO2 is produced annually. A total of 8 megatons CO2 is emitted by towers due to annual grid electricity consumption. According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), there are 250,000 telecom towers which can employ PV systems. As such, the potential for total installed PV capacity is approximately 6.2 GW. The payback period for PV systems as a power sup-
ply for telecom towers is two to four years, with this period forecasted to reach less than one year by 2014. Energy costs for telecom operations have been rising and are currently about 30% of the total cost. Due to frequent power cuts, telecom operators depend heavily on diesel which costs around Rs 20 per unit of electricity as compared to commercial grid electricity price of around ` 5 per unit. Upon switching to solar there would be savings of $1.4 billion in operating expenses for telecom tower companies spent on diesel annually as per TRAI. Rural Electrification - In India, at least 70 million to 75 million households in rural areas (approximately 400 million people or 80,000 to 90,000 villages) lack access to grid-based electricity. Electrified households in the rural areas on average pay INR 106 ($2.65) per month for electricity. This is less than the INR 150 ($3.75) that unelectrified households spend for light from kerosene lanterns. Assuming such rural un-electrified households are able and willing to pay the same as rural electrified households, the market potential for rural solar is in the order of INR 90 billion to INR 95 billion ($2.25 billion to $2.38 billion) per year. Approx-
A typical stand-alone photovoltaic power system at a sewage treatment plant
High 6 GW Market Potential
15 GW
Solar Captive Power Plants as replacement of diesel/grid power
PV-Systems for 250.000 telecom towers
2 GW < 0.9 GW
Solar Home Systems etc. Size of the market segment
Low
Mini-grids for 90,000 villages
High
Market Entry Barriers
Low
Off grid PV market - Potential and market entry barriers (Source: GTM Research)
imately 250,000 grid-connected villages with frequent power outages increase this potential even further. There are three key options for providing rural, off-grid, solar PV-based electricity solutions: small applications with integrated power generation capacity (i.e., solar lanterns and solar street lights), solar home systems (SHS) and mini-grids. Distribution, transportation and installation in rural areas are expensive. This liquidity barrier in rural markets can be overcome with various instruments like capital subsidies and microloans. Capital subsidy and a soft loan from the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency's (IREDA) OffGrid Scheme are also available for rural electrification projects.
National Lifeline: Off-grid solar policy Under the First Phase of Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM) to be implemented between 1st April 2010 and 31st March 2013, a target of 200MW capacity equivalent off-grid solar PV systems and 7 million square meter solar thermal (heating) collectors is to be installed. In its first year of the first phase of 2010-11, an installation of 32 MW solar PV off-grid systems and 5 lakh square meter solar thermal collector area were targeted, to be achieved by using a combination of Renewable Energy Service Providing Companies (RESCOs), Financial Institution's including MFIs acting as Aggregators, Financial Integrators, System Integrators and Programme Ad-
ministrators. As of February 2011, the installed base was 38.5 MW for off grid PV systems and 1.2 Lakh square meter solar thermal collector area. Under JNNSM, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) provides capital subsidy to the extent of 30% of the benchmark cost and/or 5% interest subsidy on bank loans availed from different commercial and regional rural banks for off grid solar systems through National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). Also, under its Remote Village Electrification scheme, MNRE provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) of up to 90% of the total cost for solar PV home lighting (subject to a maximum of INR 11,250 per household) and street lighting system. Barriers in Adoption of Off-grid PV Most of the PV systems designed for off-grid applications in developing nations do not include inverters, which drive up system costs. While many solar home systems come with DC appliances, such appliances are not always readily available on the market. For off-grid PV to be successful, there is also a need for customer support, particularly in system maintenance and repair. The low levels of education in many areas of the developing world must be considered; in some cases PV systems may be abandoned after malfunctioning because the owner cannot read the manual. Even in places where PV systems
In remote locations, solar energy is the power source of choice. Due to difficult roads, fuel logistics for diesel generators can be a real challenge
Solar PV powered Remote Telecom Tower
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Maharshree Geomembrane (India) Pvt.Ltd
Solar PV home lighting in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Solar Panels being used in fields to pump water for irrigation
are visible, consumers in the developing world must be educated about the benefits of these systems. In some areas, there is a tendency to think of electricity from PV as second-class or not real electricity compared to that which is delivered from the central grid, and such attitudes must be overcome. In other areas where the government has supplied large numbers of PV systems to rural areas, there is a tendency to view the systems as a gift from the government. However, even in areas where the perception of PV as a state gift is widespread, there is still a tendency to use these systems for income-generating activities, to keep PV as backup power after grid-connection, and to invest in larger systems,
indicating social acceptance of this technology. Conclusion: The road ahead Access to electricity assists with income generating activities, including agriculture. Rural electrification in India in the previous decade has largely focused on irrigation, which has moved the nation from a net food importer to a net food exporter. Other income-generation uses include in fisheries, processing of agricultural goods, and smallscale industry such as welding shops. With the right combination of policies, business models and technologies these areas can develop into thriving markets for PV and related technologies. Consumer education will be as
Solar Street lighting system
or more important in the developing world as it is in the developed world, with additional barriers of language and literacy. Likewise there is a need to educate government officials in these nations as to the advantages of PV, and to introduce policies that bring PV not as an aid product, but as a thriving industry, with strong local involvement ad sense of ownership. India's recent power grid failure that left more than 600 million people nearly 10 percent of the world's population without electricity and important services like running water, air-conditioning, traffic lights and the internet, provided several important reminders most notably that India's electrical grid and infrastructure is in need of vast improvements if the country's evergrowing middleclass population can expect regular and reliable power. Energy poverty is already driving social entrepreneurs to develop unique innovations for the poor that create local energy economies capable of delivering what billions of dollars, and years of centralized power plants, have failed to deliver, i.e., clean energy access. Just like the decision to abandon the continued dependency on internal combustion engine rather than the invention of electric engine, shaped the course of history, our approach to solar will determine the fate of hundreds of millions around the world. Now is the time to seize this opportunity, now is the time to get it right!
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Gourav Industries
Sustainability Warm Mix Asphalt
The Use of Warm Mix Asphalt

European Asphalt Pavement Association
he first WMA techniques were developed in the late 1990s. Additives were trialled in Germany and in Norway the WAM-Foam process was developed. Figure 1 shows how WMA fits into the full range of techniques from cold mix through to hot mix: Cold mixes: produced with unheated aggregate and bitumen emulsion or foamed bitumen. - Half Warm Asphalt: produced with heated aggregate at a mixing temperature (of the mix) between approximately 70 C and roughly 100 C. - Warm Mix Asphalt: produced and mixed at temperatures roughly between 100 and 140 C. - Hot Mix Asphalt: produced and mixed at temperatures roughly between 120 and 190 C The production temperatures of Hot Mix Asphalt depend on the bitumen used. This paper describes the main WMA techniques that are
used and which have an asphalt production temperature above 100 C. These mixes have properties and performance which are equivalent to conventional Hot Mix Asphalt. Techniques to Produce WMA Warm-Mix Asphalt (WMA) technologies operate above 100 oC, so the amount of water remaining in the mix is very small. Various techniques are used to reduce the effective viscosity of the binder enabling full coating and subsequent compactability at lower temperatures. The most common techniques are: - Organic additives - Chemical additives - Foaming techniques Organic additives to the mix or to the bitumen Different organic additives can be used to lower the viscosity of
the binder (bitumen) at temperatures above about 90C. The type of additive must be selected carefully so that its melting point is higher than the expected in-service temperatures (otherwise permanent deformation may occur) and to minimize embrittlement of the asphalt at low temperatures. The organic additives, usually waxes or fatty amides, can be added either to the mixture or to the bitumen. A commonly used additive is a special paraffin wax produced by conversion of natural gas. Organic additives typically give a temperature reduction of between 2030 C whilst they also improve the deformation resistance of asphalt so modified. Chemical additives Chemical additives do not change the bitumen viscosity.
Figures 3: Foaming nozzle [2.]
As surfactants they work at the microscopic interface of the aggregates and the bitumen. They regulate and reduce the frictional forces at that interface at a range of temperatures, typically between 140 and 85C. It is therefore possible to mix the bitumen and aggregates and to compact the mixture at a lower temperature.
Figure 1: Classification by temperature range (Temperatures, and fuel usage are approximations) [1.]
Chemical additives may reduce the mix and compaction temperatures by about 20 - 30C. Foaming techniques - to initiate a foaming process of the bitumen A range of foaming techniques is applied to reduce the viscosity of bitumen. Various means are employed to introduce small amounts of water into the hot bitumen. The water turns to steam, increases the volume of the bitumen and reduces its viscosity for a short period until the material has cooled. The foam then collapses and the bitumen behaves as a normal binder. The amount of expansion depends on a number of factors, including the amount of water added and the temperature of the binder [2]. Two techniques are commonly used for foaming: - injection foaming nozzles - minerals The direct method of foaming is to inject a small controlled amount of water to hot bitumen via a foaming nozzle. This results in a large but temporary increase in the effective volume of the binder which facilitates coating at lower temperatures. Some vapour remains in the bitumen during compaction reducing effective viscosity and facilitating
Figures 2: Foaming nozzle [3.]
compaction. On cooling the binder reverts to normal, as the amount of water is insignificant. This technique can enable a temperature reduction of the asphalt mix of about 20 to 30C. Figures 2 and 3 show examples of foaming nozzles. The Two phase process [4.] is a method where a soft grade of bitumen is used to initially coat the aggregate, then the filler is added. After this, foamed hard bitumen is added and mixed resulting in a warm mixture of an intermediate binder grade. An indirect foaming technique uses a mineral as the source of foaming water. Hydrophilic minerals from the zeolite family are commonly used. Zeolite is a crystalline hydrated aluminium silicate that contains about 20 percent of crystalline water, which is released above 100 deg C. This release of water creates a controlled foaming effect, which can provide an improved workability for a 6- to 7hour period, or until the temperature drops below 100 C. In this instance the foaming results in an improved workability of the mix which can subsequently allow a decrease in the mix temperature by approximately 30C with equivalent compaction performance. Equivalent performance of WMA There is a history of use of WMA going back over more than ten years, from the early sites in Germany and Norway. Germany In Germany many test sections and commercial applications of WMA (and other low temperature techniques) were constructed between 1998 and 2001. The BASt has monitored seven test sections. Six of the seven projects were SMA mixes and one was a dense-graded mix. Based on laboratory and field performance data in all cases, the test sections had the same or better performance than the HMA control sections [5.]. Norway The oldest test sections with WAM-Foam in Norway were built in 1999. Also in Norway the overall conclusion is that the WAM-Foam sections appeared to perform similarly to previous HMA overlays [1.] It was concluded in [1.] that: based on the laboratory and short-term (3 years or less) field performance data, WMA mixes appear to provide the same performance as, or better performance, than HMA. Other studies have also showed that the performance and the in-service characteristics of WMA mixes are equivalent to those of the traditional mixes, and frequently even better [6.] [7.].
There are believed to be several reasons for this good performance. In particular, as a result of improved workability, a higher compacted density can be achieved. This higher density reduces the long-term in-service hardening of the bitumen and also prevents ingress of water. Lower production temperatures can also decrease the ageing of the bitumen during the production stage which can additionally improve the thermal and fatigue cracking resistance of the asphalt. Workability improvements also have the potential to extend the construction season and the time available for placement of the asphalt mixture during any given day. Benefits of WMA In the Kyoto protocol, the ratifying states agreed to lower the emission of greenhouse gases, which essentially concerns CO2 emissions, to 5% below the 1990 level between the years 2008 and 2012. The European asphalt industry strives to contribute to this and to initiate measures for emission reduction. Lower mixing and laying temperatures will result in reduced emissions. There are also positive effects on the working environment during production and paving. In this Section the benefits of using/producing WMA are described with regard to: - - - - Environmental benefits Paving benefits Asphalt workers benefits Economical benefits
Environmental benefits Because of the lower production temperature of WMA less fuel is needed to heat the aggregate. This results in lower emissions. The actual reductions vary based on a number of factors and should be considered on a case by case basis. For WMA and Half Warm Asphalt significant reductions are however reported in the literature: Plant stack emissions from WMA and Half Warm Asphalt production are significantly reduced [1.]. CO2 reductions are in the order of 20 to 40 %. SO2 reductions are in the range of 20 to 35 %. The reduction of volatile organic compounds (VOC) can be up to 50 % and for carbon monoxide (CO) by 10 to 30 %. For nitrous oxides (NOx) the reduction can be as much as 60 to 70 %. Particulate release reductions vary from 20 to 55 % [1.]. Actual reductions vary based on a number of factors, such as the fuel used. Technologies that result in greater temperature reductions are expected to have greater emission reductions. Other researchers [6.] have shown similar data as in [1.]:
Gorantala Geosynthetics Pvt.Ltd
Emissions of greenhouse gases like CO2, NO2 and SO2 are also reduced in the same proportion as the energy gain, which is about 25% to 50% according to the processes. Tests for asphalt aerosols/fumes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) indicated significant reductions compared to HMA, with results showing a 30 to 50 percent reduction [1.]. It should be noted that all of the exposure data for conventional HMA were below the current acceptable exposure limits. So, in short: - The reduction of the production temperature in the WMA and Half Warm Asphalt processes do lead to significant reductions of stack emissions; - The reduced fuel and energy usage gives a reduction of the production of green house gases and reduces the CO2 / Carbon footprint; - The lower mixing and paving temperatures help to minimise fumes, emissions, and odours and a subsequent reduction of workers potential for exposure to fugitive emissions from the plant. NB the embodied CO2 footprint of additives may offset some of the savings gained from energy and emissions reductions. Manufacturing and paving benefits The use of Warm Mix Asphalt has several advantages, not only for the asphalt mix itself but also for the paving operations: Manufacturing benefits: - Lower asphalt temperatures results in less hardening of the bitumen/binder during manufacture - The WMA process will lower the amount of dust extraction because the aggregate is heated to a lower temperature - WMA is fully compatible with the use of RAP . Paving operations benefits The use of Warm Mix Asphalt improves the handling characteristics of asphalt and creates a more comfortable (working) environment for the asphalt workers and the public near work sites: - WMA can be compacted at a lower temperature than conventional HMA for an equivalent degree of compaction. - Alternatively, producing WMA at HMA temperatures will permit an extended time for haulage and compaction. Therefore more distant sites can be served from each plant with the same degree of workability, or the period of workability to achieve the same degree of compaction is extended. Or, a higher degree of compaction can
be achieved at the same (HMA) temperature. This can additionally extend the laying season into colder months and/or night working. - WMA can be used in deep patches where the site is restricted. As the lower temperature WMA starts with less heat it will therefore cool faster to ambient temperatures. Therefore, the site can be opened for traffic at an earlier stage. - The lower mixing and paving temperatures minimises fume and odour emissions and creates cooler working conditions for the asphalt workers. As a rule of thumb, the release of fume is reduced by around 50% for each 10C reduction in temperature. - This reduction in emissions of fume and odour also minimises inconvenience to the public near work sites. Economical aspects Cost reductions may arise from: - Because of the lower production temperature of WMA less fuel is needed to dry and heat the aggregate. - Because of the lower production temperature there may be less wear of the asphalt plant [8] [9]. Cost increases may arise from: - The investment and the depreciation of the plant modification (if needed) - The costs of the additives (if additives are used). - Technology licensing costs Dependent on the interaction of these factors the costs of WMA production should be expected to be similar to or slightly higher than that of normal hot mix. WMA and European Standards The European Standards for Bituminous mixtures (EN 13108-1 to -7) have been in force since 1st March 2008. These Standards do not preclude the use of Warm Mix Asphalt. The European Standards include maximum temperatures for particular mixtures, but there are no minimum temperatures The minimum temperature of the asphalt mix at delivery is declared by the manufacturer. The standards also contain provisions for dealing with mixtures containing additives, subject to demonstration of equivalent performance. Thus, European Standards should not be seen as a barrier to the introduction of WMA. Procurement Increasing focus on energy use and carbon footprint is likely to stimulate interest in the wider use of WMA and
Maco Coporation India Pvt.Ltd
Climax Geosynthetics Pvt.Ltd
other energy reducing technologies. It may be appropriate to give some advantage to low energy/low carbon technologies in the procurement process to encourage their use. Any Green Procurement needs to take a Life Cycle Assessment approach to ensure that alternative products provide equivalent performance and that the appropriate maintenance scenarios are fully assessed. Various transparent and objective models are under development to assist in this process. Summary and recommendations In recent years several techniques have become available for producing Warm Mix asphalt. The most commonly used at this moment are: - Organic additives - Chemical additives - Foaming techniques These permit the production and paving of asphalt mixes at temperatures which are 20 to 40 C lower than traditional hot-mix asphalt. Studies have showed that the performance characteristics of WMA mixes can be at least equivalent to conventional mixes. This can be achieved because of the often better workability and hence better compaction which can be achieved. The lower production temperature also reduces the ageing of the bitumen during the production stage, which results in an improved thermal and fatigue cracking resistance. The use of WMA is beneficial with respect to: - The environment: less energy needed and less emissions - The paving operations: better workability, extending the construction season and earlier opening of the road - Asphalt workers: reduced potential for exposure to fumes and odours and a cooler working environment - Economical issues: Less fuel needed. WMA techniques can be used for most types of asphalt mixtures, including mixtures traditionally produced at elevated temperatures such as EME2 and Mastic Asphalt as well as Polymer Modified Asphalts. New techniques continue to be developed. Because of the many advantages of WMA, its usage is growing and it is expected that the use of WMA will become standard practice. The advantages with regard to the environment, the asphalt workers, the paving operations and the economical benefits also have to be brought to the attention of the politicians and the specifiers in road authorities and they have to be
convinced of the advantages of the WMA. In the future more data to support the good performance and the enhanced durability should be provided, based on the experience of the existing paving projects. In the future the Carbon Footprint / environmental aspects will become more important and the use of WMA may prove to be one of the ways to achieve a lower Carbon Footprint. A good and easy to use LCA-tool to calculate environmental effects will be beneficial during the tendering process. Last but not least, including WMA technologies in local and national specifications will stimulate the industry to provide society with state-of-the-art solutions regarding ecological issues. References
1 Warm-Mix Asphalt: European Practice; International Technology Scanning Program, FHWA-PL-08-007, February 2008, FHWAHPIP , U.S. (Department of Transportation, Washington, DC, USA. (www.international.fhwa.dot.gov Fax: 001 202 366 9626) 2 Jenkins, K. Mix Design Considerations for Cold and HalfWarm Bituminous Mixes with Emphasis on Foamed Bitumen. Doctoral Dissertation, Stellenbosch University, 2000. 3 Astec Double Barrel Green System; www.astecinc.com 4 Larsen, O.R., O. Moen, C. Robertus, B.G. Koenders; WAM Foam Asphalt Production at Lower Operating Temperatures as an Environmental Friendly Alternative to HMA - Proceedings 3rd Eurasphalt & Eurobitume Congress, Vienna 2004. 5 Erfahrungssammlung ber die Verwendung von Fertigprodukten und Zustzen zur Temperaturabsenkung von Asphalt, published by Bundesanstalt fr Straenwesen (BASt), Bergisch Gladbach (www.bast.de -> Fachthemen -> Straenbautechnik -> temperaturreduzierte Asphaltbauweisen -> Erfahrungssammlung or http://www.bast.de/cln_ 005/nn_42746/DE/Aufgaben/abteilung-s/referat-s5/ temperaturreduzierter asphalt/erfahrungssammlung,templat eId=raw,property=publicationFile.pdf/erfahrungssammlung. pdf). Valid version when printing these guidelines: May 2008 (The archive itself is available only in German. But there are English websites of BASt: www.bast.de -> Special Subjects -> Highway Construction Technology -> Reduced-Temperature Asphalt Design). 6 Y. Brosseaud, M. Saint Jacques, Warm asphalt mixes: overview of this new technology in France, Paper 0309, Transport Research Arena Europe 2008, Ljubljana. 7 X. Carbonneau, J.P Henrat, F. Ltaudin, Environmentally friendly energy saving mixes, Proceedings of the 4th Eurasphalt & Eurobitume Congress, Copenhagen 2008; paper 500-010. 8 R. Rhl, Lower temperatures The best for asphalt, bitumen, environment and health and safety; Proceedings of the 4th Eurasphalt & Eurobitume Congress, Copenhagen 2008; paper 500-013. 9 Y. Edwards; Influence of waxes on polymer modified mastic asphalt performance; Proceedings of the 4th Eurasphalt & Eurobitume Congress, Copenhagen 2008; paper 401-014.
Gayatri Polymers & Geosynthetics
Consolidated Machines
Relyon Facility Services
Balithe - High Performance Panels for Wall Cladding and Roofing in Highly Corrosive Environments
ALITHE panels from the Onduline group are, made of opaque reinforced fibreglass polyester, is presented in the form of:- Ribbed sheets with enhanced resistance to corrosive environments. Field of Application Ribbed BALITHE sheets are intended for roofing and cladding of buildings of every purpose, especially those in severe corrosive environmentsboth internal and external. This is a product specifically adapted to suit the specific conditions of the industrial world- the product is ideally suited to resist corrosive environments as well as to large differences in temperature Materials BALITHE ribbed sheets are manufactured from glass fibres, mineral loads, and polyester resin especially formulated to resist chemical agents. They are tinted in the mass by pigmentation and are covered on both sides by a Gel Coat of pure resin treated with anti-UV. Chemical Resistance Balithe panels are resistant to
BALITHE sheets are ribbed according to the C25 profile (4x250x35)
averywide range of chemicalproducts Balithe panels are resistant to fire and confirm to European fire response category B-s3, d0. The panels are available in three standard coloursOff-white, Blue and Light Grey. The panels are also thermally stable from 30 degree centigrade to +120 degree centigrade which enables it to adapt to very high temperature environments. The thermoplasicresinsused in the panels enablethem to withstandsharp and suddenincreases in temperature Dimensional Characteristics
Linear expansion coefficient : 30.10-6 m/m/C
Thickness: 1.45 mm
Cladding Total Width: 1,041 mm
Sulphuric Acid Hydrochloric Acid Phosphoric Acid Nitric Acid Formic Acid Sodium Carbonate Salt Solutions Formaldehyde Carbon Tetrachloride
40% 100% 100% 30% 30% 10% 100% 25% 100%
Roofing Total Width: 1,058 mm
Total width as Cladding: 1,041 mm Total width as Roofing: 1,058 mm Corrugation step : 250 mm Corrugation height : 35 mm

OFIC Building Materials India Pvt Ltd
2nd Floor, Sindhu Enclave, Site No. 5 & 6, Yelahanka Byepass Road (International Airport Highway), Yelahanka,Bengaluru, Karnataka-560064 Email: sales@ondulineindia.com Web: www.onduline.in
Physical Characteristics Density : 1,7 Weight: 2.9 kg per m
Primary Resistance- Immersion At 20degrees Centigrade
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Tekla Structures: Powerful tool for Designing Pre engineering Buildings

ekla Structures, the most advanced building information modeling (BIM) software on the market, is an ideal tool for engineers, detailers and fabricators involved in the design, fabrication, and management of PEB projects. Tekla Structures is a powerful and flexible 3D modelling and detailing software solution that integrates the entire workflow from sales and estimating to detailing, fabrication and erection, the whole Project Lifecycle. Tekla Structures contains wide range of or extensive library of all the PEB industry components. Tekla Structures custom component feature provides flexibility to user to create a company specific library of components without any programming knowledge. Tekla Structures effectively integrates into any best-of-breed software driven workflow, while maintaining the highest levels of data integrity and accuracy, Such collaborative workflows are the cornerstone to minimizing errors and maximizing efficiency, resulting in high profitability and on-time project completion. Effectiveness into designing: Improve the productivity of design with extensive range of connections and dimensional accuracy. Save time with tools such as adaptive PEB frame components, customizing to company-specific requirements, and automatic drawing production. Easily create and implement company specific secondary parts, such as sheeting, purlins/girts, braces, and custom components. Save money and time with automated clash checking already in -
the design phase. Reduce errors in fabrication by exporting of fabrication data directly to CNC machinery. Achieve accurate design and detailing by integrating the model into the industry standard packages such as Staad Pro, PDS, and PDMS. Facilitate design process with high class visualization.
estimate, improved quality & accuracy. Tekla Structures provides "unique system" and acts as "central system" to provide the data/information to every participants of engineering, construction. Few References from the PEB Industry: This is a Product ware house Building located at Panipat with a tonnage of 1250 tonnes. The whole PEB structures comprisining has been designed and detailed in Tekla Structures as per PEB Standards. This is a car showroom Bldg consisting of 90m high and 12.5 m wide frames with a Tonnage of 350 MT spanning 90 M having 13frames with intermediate span 9M all detailed in Tekla Structures as per PEB Standards. A unique mountain-themed attraction, Ski Dubai is the first indoor ski
The Tekla Structures model can be successfully used for various purposes: Avoid repetitive work and duplicated information as the software covers the entire workflow from sales, bidding, cost estimation, and conceptual design to detailing, fabrication, erection, and follow-up work. The sales models can be used as the basis for more detailed engineering work. Output of high quality informative visuals presents to the client exactly what they will be receiving. Output of lists of materials to obtain just the necessary materials. Accurate material information to support the sales process, tendering, and purchasing. Accurate scheduling information can be easily extracted from the detailed 3D model. Output of 3D model is beneficial on the construction site. Improved time on construction by utilizing detailed, dimensionally accurate 3D model.
Tekla Structures has been adopted by various small mid big size PEB companies like Litmus , Quest , Kirby, TATA Bluescope, ERA, Geodesic, Octamec, PEB steel Lloyd, Mammut , Zamil steel for accurate & faster
Product Ware House, Panipat
resort in the Middle East. It is located inside the Mall of the Emirates and offers a 3000 square meter indoor snow setting for skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing an opportunity to
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Reva Car Showroom, Bangalore
enjoy real snow in the desert all year round.Built like an upside-down letter L, with its highest point towering 85 metersabove the main highway, the snowdome has a diameter of more than 200 meters (total area 22,500 square meters, including 25 stories of indoor slopes). A unique mountainthemed attraction, Ski Dubai is the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East. It is located inside the Mall of the Emirates and offers a 3000 square meter indoor snow setting for skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing an opportunity to enjoy real snow in the desert all year round.
Ski Dubai, UAE
Tekla Structures was used for steel detailing to complete the complex and stately snowdome structure with excellent results. longest run is 400 meters, with a vertical drop of more than 60 meters. The runs have a 60 degrees curve on the way down to make them more challenging. For snowboarders there is a 90-meter quarterpipe and what is claimed to be the largest indoor snow park in the world. The park also features a Swissstyle balconied chalet caf. Ski Dubai
is said to be the largest freestanding transparent structure in the world with no supporting columns. It is clad with curved sheeting to represent an aircraft-wing shape floating in mid air.
To know more about Tekla Structures Solution for Pre-Engineered Building Industry:
Tekla India Pvt. Ltd.
Ph: 022-61387777, E-mail: info.india@tekla.com
Six crore saplings to be planted in Bihar

Six crore saplings will be planted in the next five years to increase green cover of Bihar from 9.79 to 15 percent, an official of the forest department told. It is the part of government's drive for 'Harit Bihar' (Green Bihar Campaign) under which 3.6 crore popular saplings and 2.4 crore other varieties will be planted. The government had planned to spend Rs.210 crore as incentives to ensure the survival of the saplings. Farmers and locals will be paid Rs.15 for every tree they plant in the first year and Rs.10 each the next two years. Undivided Bihar had a forest cover of 17 percent. The state now stands sixth from the bottom in forest cover in the country. Six crore saplings to be planted in Bihar
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BMTPC - Emerging Technologies for Mass Housing
Waterproofing
Waterproofing the Building Envelope

ne of the most essential materials for making the building envelope waterproof is the joint sealant. Joints are there invariably in all civil construction. According to material of construction, there are different kinds of joints. Some are only for joining, some are for accommodating the movements. Movements are mainly because of thermal gradients caused by temperature variations. There are also movements due to seismic activity, settlement, shrinkage, creep and dynamic loads, temperature variations due to processes etc. All joints which are formed due to above reasons must be properly sealed, monitored and maintained. This is essential to protect the structures from ingress of foreign matter such as dirt, dust, water, chemicals and organisms. Depending on the requirement of each joint there are various types of sealing solution available in the market. Here we will discuss some very commonly used joint sealants in civil construction. There are mainly two types viz. Liquid applied and Pre-Formed. Varieties of polymers are used to manufacture liquid applied joint sealants. These include polysulfide, polyurethane, modified polyurethanes, silyl terminated polyethers, SPURs, polymer modified bitumen, flexible epoxy, silicones and butyl rubber based materials are now being used. Joints in Concrete There are different types of joints in concrete. As there is always a shrinkage involved while using cement concrete, this factor must be considered while concrete placement. Concrete can not poured in thick sections or longer spans, for two reasons. First reason is the heat generated in the concrete due to hydration of cement, which causes differential thermal gradient between the core and the surface. As the mass increases this gradient also increases. As per standard practices this gradient shall be also close as or less than 20 C. This limits the placement volume. Other reason is that, most of the times continuous pours are not possible or placement may get interrupted due to unavoidable delays. Apart from this longer and wider sections may crack due to drying, chemical, autogenous shrinkage, creep or thermal expansion and contractions. Expansion Joints, Control or Contraction Joints, Isolation Joints and Detailing joints are some of the type of joints in buildings. Expansion joints are provided to allow movement in a structure caused by thermal or other factors such as wind loading.
Control joints are provided for expected cracking due to factors such as settlement, drying shrinkage or separation in building materials after construction. Internal control joints are typically nonmoving while in the exterior they also accommodate movement. External control joints require more design work. Isolation joints are placed at junctures where changes in material require isolation for any differential movement between two different materials. Typical example is window frame perimeter abutting faade materials. Detailing joints are designed as a part of waterproofing system. They are vital to impart water tightness at structure details such as pipe penetrations and changes in planes prior to application of primary water proofing compounds. There is some thumb or basic rules for design of joints. These are as described below Joint size no smaller than 6 mm. Generally limit the joint size in buildings to 25 mm. Joint opening shall be kept at a minimum of four times anticipated movement.
Sealant design shall take following rules in consideration while deciding width and depth. Minimum material thickness shall be 6 mm. Up to 12 mm wide joints shall have Depth (D) = Width (W) Wider joints and traffic joints shall have D = W/2. Three way adhesions is not allowed so use of backer Rod or Bond breaker tape is a must. While using PE closed foam backer rod, it shall be 25% more in diameter than the joint size. Porous surfaces generally require primer to avoid passage of air / impurities to sealant in wet stage and for proper adhesion.
In liquid applied sealants there are mainly two types, viz. single component and two components. Single components PU based sealants such as KEM JOINT PU 100 work on a principle of curing by reaction with atmospheric moisture. Polysulfide based sealants such as KEM Joint GG and KEM Joint PG, have two component system. These cure because of chemical reaction between the hardener and base components. We will continue this article in the next Techconnect issue, where we will have a look at different specifications and some important factors such MAF. Following illustrations provide an insight into application and mixing methods.
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Waterproofing
Sealant
Bond Breaker Tape

Use of Bond breaker tapes to avoid three way adhesion of Sealant
Sealant
Backer Road
A section of joint showing sealant placed over a PE closed cell foam backer Rod.
Filling of 2 part sealant in application Gun using follower plate.Following is the list of some of the important specifications
Following is the list of some of the important specifications and guidelines which may help you in understanding the joint design essentials and sealant specifications. Standards, Specifications and Guidelines. BS 4254 - Specification for two part polysulphide based sealant. BS 5212 - Cold applied joint sealant systems for concrete pavements. ASTM C 920 - Standard Specification for Elastomeric Joint Sealants.
Taping of Joint with masking tape to ensure Neatness
ASTM C 834 - Standard Specification for Latex Sealants. ISO 11600 - Building Construction - Jointing Products Classification and requirements for sealants. ACI 224.3R - Joints in concrete construction. BS 6093- Design of joints and jointing in building construction.
Sealant Gun for application of Gun Grade sealant
ACI 504R - Guide to sealing joints in concrete structures Both ACI 224.3R and BS 6093 code of practice give guideline for design of joints. ACI 224.3 Section 1.2 guides in designing of joints based on characteristics such as resistance, configuration, formation, location, type of structure, and function. Resistance: Tied or reinforced, doweled, non doweled, plain. Configuration: Butt, lap, tongue, and groove. Formation: Sawed, hand - formed, tooled, grooved & insert formed.
Proper mixing of 2 part sealants
Location: Transverse, longitudinal, vertical & horizontal.
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Waterproofing
Type of Structure: Bridge, pavement, slab - on - grade & building. Function: Construction, contraction, expansion, isolation & hinge. Example: Tied, tongue and groove, hand - tooled, longitudinal pavement construction joint. Some other considerations which are important are discussed below, Sealants are classified as elastic, elastoplastic or plastic according to their response to movement. Movement Accommodation Factor (MAF) indicates the range of movement between maximum compression & maximum extension that the sealant can accommodate. This is generally expressed as percentage. While designing a joint, the specification joint gap width should be derived
from all deviation to which the joint is subjected. However, minimum joint gap widths are required for the satisfactory performance of sealants in butt joints. These are generally calculated based on the MAF provided by the sealant manufacturer and the Total Relevant Movement (TRM) of components at the joint. The stresses induced in a sealant in a joint subject to movement are more critical in plain butt joint than in a lap joint. The latter may accept up to twice as much movement as a butt joint using the same compound and joint dimensions. The joint seal shape is important for elastic & elastoplastic sealants when they are used in joints subject significant movement. It has been establish that for elastic sealant optimum performance is obtained at ratios of about 2:1 width:depth & that ratio should generally not be less than 1:1, subject to minimum depth of 5 mm.
Type of Joints
Butt Joints
W W W
Control Joints
Sealant and Tape or Rod Concrete Tape Shrinkage Crack
Bridge Joints
New sealant 1/4 Minimum 1/8 Minimum
W/2 Round Rod Hourglass W/2 Tape Rectangular
W Square Rod Square
Old Sealant Concrete
Expansion Joints Fillet Joints

Sealant and Backer Rod Rod
a
Tape
b
Rod
c
Compression Filler Brick Concrete
Fillers for Movement Joints Joint Filler Type Property Typical Uses Form Density Range Pressure for 50% Compression N/mm 2 Resillience % (Recovery after Compression) Tolerance to Water Immersion
kg/m Wood fibre/Bitumen Bitumen/Cork Cork/Resin General purpose expansion joints General purpose expansion joints Expansion joints in water-retaining structures where bitumen is not acceptable Low load transfer joints Sheet, strip Sheet Sheet, strip
200 to 400 500 to 600 200 to 300
0.7 to 5.2 0.7 to 5.2 0.5 to 3.4
70 to 85 70 to 80 85 to 95
Suitable if infrequent Suitable Suitable
Cellular plastics and rubbers Mineral or ceramic fibres or intumescent strips
Sheet, strip Loose fibre or braided and strip
40 to 60 Dependent upon degree of compaction
0.07 to 0.34 Dependent upon degree of compaction
85 to 95 Slight
Suitable if infrequent Not suitable
Fire-resistant joints : low movement
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Waterproofing
Functions of Back-up Material
Below - Grade or Under Water Joints
Controls Depth of Sealant
Polysulfide Based Sealant
Hydrostatic Pressure Polysulfide Based Sealant
Back-up Material Isolates Sealant from Bottom of Joint Function of Back-up Material & Below Grade or Under Water Joints
Rigid, Non - Absorbent Back - Up Material
Key Fourth Beads Applied Third Beads Applied Second Beads Applied First Beads Applied
Filling wide joints
Some Typical Problems Encountered at Sealed Joints
Resultant Spall Initial Crack Plug of Concrete Between Sealant and Filler
Sealant Reservoir (Groove) not Formed or Sawn Deep Enough
Filler Displaced During Concreting
Random Cracks Associated with Expansion Joint - Possible Causes
Sealant Reservoir Narrower Than Filler (or off Center)
Maybe Some Distances Apart Direction of Sawing
Crack Follows and/or Crosses Joint. May Be Due to A, B, C Or Sawing Joint Late After Crack Had Already Formed
(i)Crack Ran Ahead of Sawing to Slab Edge Due to Late Cutting (ii)infiltration of Incompressible Material from Shoulder
F Sealant Reservoir
(Groove) or Crack Inducer Not Deep Enough to Form Plane of Weakness at Desired Joint Iocation
G Joints at Intersection
Were not Lined Up. Crack Occurs Due to Complete Omitted Continuity
Random Cracks in Plan - Possible Causes
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Implementation Challenges & Way forward for Construction & Infrastructure Sector during 12th Five Year plan (2012 - 17)
Implementation Challenges & Way forward for Construction & Infrastructure Sector during 12th Five Year plan (2012 - 17)
Groundbreaking Roofing Solutions for Heat Insulation and Waterproofing
Atul Khanna
GM-Insulation Division The Supreme Industries Ltd.
upreme Industries has been on the fore front of introducing pathbreaking plastics for myriad applications in diverse industries. The company, established in 1942, offers unique roofing solutions, already popular in the industry. Supreme's protective packaging division plays the role of a solution provider to clients in diverse industries,
INSUboard - Roof Insulation
specifically in the application areas of Packaging & Cushioning, Insulation and Construction. The division is a part of Supreme group, who is an acknowledged leader of India's plastic industry, handling over 2,50,000 tonnes
of polymers annually and having the group turnover in excess of ` 4,500 crores. Supreme offers 'INSU and DURA range of products' for roofing and thermal insulation applications. Innovative 'INSU'lations Energy is the single largest operating expense and accounts for over $100 billion in expenses for commercial buildings each year. With a view to improve efficiency and enable conservation of energy, the Thermal Insulation Division of Supreme provides top-ofthe-line insulation solutions with its 'INSU' range of products. Each of the products that Supreme offers i.e. INSUshield FR, closed cell chemically crosslinked polyethylene, INSUboard Extruded polystyrene and INSUreflector - Radiant barrier are for the purpose of saving energy in different segments of the industry and for different applications. Supreme's Thermal Insulation Division offers solutions in the following areas:
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UBM Media (Precast India 2012)
Underdeck Insulation
Underdeck Iinsulation in PEBs, Textile Units, Malls, Airports etc. Ducting Insulation in Hospitals, Shopping Malls, Airports, PEBs, IT/ BPO etc. Pipe insulation for split AC Tubings, Chiller Piping, Drain Pipes, Chilled Water Lines etc. Floor Insulation in Server Rooms, Data Centres, Medical & Diagnostic Centres, and Control Rooms for Petrochemicals. Overdeck and Wall Insulation in Commercial Buildings, Residential Buildings, Cold Storages etc.
In line with this, Supreme offers 'INSUreflector'- a radiant heat reflective insulation material made of polyethylene air bubble film (ABF) laminated with aluminum foil on one or both sides. The bright surface of the aluminium foil reflects 96 per cent to 99 per cent infrared radiation received by the surface of a heated slate roof. It protects the building from undesirable heat gain. The thin reflective foil having low emissivity and high reflectivity when installed with an air space restricts the transfer of far-infrared radiation making
it an ideal material to be used for underdeck application. 'INSUshield' is a non-fibrous, fire retardant ('Class O' in fire propagation and 'class 1' in surface spread of flame), closed cell, tri dimensional chemically cross-linked polyethylene foam. An ideal environment friendly insulation material, with a perfect solution for all your insulation needs for ducts, roofs, pipes, vessels, etc. The divergent advantages of 'INSUshield' are ease of installation, low thermal conductivity and good moisture and vapour resistance preventing microbial growth and optimum condensation protection. We strongly recommend that all buildings where human effort is involved or where the process so requires, be insulated for a better working environment & productivity. 'DURAroofil' (Formerly SIL ROOFIL) are customised, light weight, resilient, soft, polymer based closed cell profiles for PEB structures. 'DURAmembrane' keep dampness at bay DURAmembrane is a new offering in the portfolio of competent and
DURAble products of the Construction Accessories Division. DURAmembrane is a new generation, cost effective solution for waterproofing of basements and roofs. It is a versatile material, capable of retaining the dryness of concrete, masonry, metal and wood structures and is resistant to salts, alkalis, and most acids. Supreme is the only manufacturer of this type of water proofing membrane in India. It can be used for applications like concrete roof waterproofing, basement waterproofing and also water proofing of bathrooms & terrace gardens. DURAmembrane can not only be used in new constructions but also at the time of repair of a structure, points out Ajay Mohta. It does not absorb water at all. Its 'K' value does not deteriorate. Talking about evaluation against bitumen based products we all know that bitumen disintegrates after contact with water. Further, over a period it catches fungi and also starts melting during summer, thus lowering its puncture resistant strength. The striking feature of DURAmembrane is that it has a very good puncture resistance of 199 N (Test method - ASTM E154: 1999) and being polymer based, it won't deteriorate also over a long period, adds Mohta. Quality at its best: A methodical, systematic and stringent approach to quality ensures durability to all their products. The company adheres to international quality standards while manufacturing products. ISO 9001:2000 and ISO 14001 certifications and NABL accreditation for various plants is a testimony to their serious approach to quality. It is strongly recommend that all buildings where human effort is involved or where the process so requires, be insulated for a better working environment & productivity.

The Supreme Industries E-mail: insulation@supreme.co.in Web: www.supreme.co.in
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International Conference of Suppliers to Construction Chemical Industry (CCMA)
Eco-Friendly Solution to Prevent Dampness and Preserve Natural Stones
atural stones, such as sand stones, etc used in various construction projects add aesthetic value to the buildings. They make the buildings look grand and beautiful. However improper maintenance of the natural stones may lead to spoiling the aesthetic look of the buildings and may ruin the stones forever. It is very common to see growth of fungus, moss, algae, etc, caused due to absorption of water on the stones, which lead to damaging the stones. Damp stones are a breeding ground for the algae, moss, etc and also cause efflorescence. Efflorescence is a crystalline deposit on surfaces of masonry, natural stones or concrete, etc. The water often deposits salts on the
porous stones which cause efflorescence, that mar the otherwise beautiful and serviceable structures.
Evercrete Top Seal is clear nonglossy water based, water repellent that has the ability to extend the life time of natural stones such as sandstone, pavers, bricks, etc. It prevents the growth of fungus, moss, algae and efflorescence. Evercrete Top Seal protects the natural stones from the elements that they are subjected to on a daily basis, such as rains, salts, oils, etc. These elements wear down the integrity of these surfaces, leading to unsightly stain from mould, algae and gradual decay. Apart from using Evercrete Top Seal on various types of stones structures and stone cladding, it can also be used to preserve and protect various heritage buildings made out of stone Features of Evercrete Top Seal Water based and ready to use. Long shelf life. Green product Does not alter the colour, texture or any other physical characteristic of the surface.
Untreated
Treated with Evercrete Top Seal
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Vibrant Future Cities - 2013
Stone wall before cleaning
Stone wall after cleaning with Evercrete Deep Clean 250
UV resistant. Reduces algae, mould growth and efflorescence.
Cleaning of Stone/Concrete Surfaces Often we may come across stones or concrete structures that have water marks, stains or fungus, moss, algae, etc on it which are difficult to remove. In such cases instead of grinding the surface, the surface can be cleaned using a water based product such as Evercrete
Deep Clean 250. Evercrete Deep Clean 250 is a ready to use, water based stain remover. It can be used to remove various kinds of stains from natural stones, concrete, etc. Prevention of Rising Dampness Using Evercrete Top Seal Rising dampness is the common form of dampness found in buildings. It causes pealing of paint and occurs when water rises through the brick wall
due to a process often referred to as capillary action. The height to which the water would rise depends on the pore structure of the bricks, mortar and also on the rate of evaporation. Water which rises through the red bricks contains salts, such as chlorides, nitrates, etc. These salts tend to absorb the moisture in the atmosphere. This adds to the dampness of the walls. Hence it is important to treat the brick walls in the construction stage. Evercrete Top Seal can be used to treat the brick walls during the construction stage, to prevent rising dampness. Evercrete Top Seal seals the pores of the red bricks, and prevents the capillary action. The bricks treated with Evercrete Top Seal can be plastered without the use of a bonding agent, etc.

Poly Flex
A-229, Antophill Warehousing Complex, Vidyalankar College Marg, Wadala (E), Mumbai - 400037 Ph: +91-22-66059800 E-mail: polyflex@polyflex.co.in Web: www.polyflex.co.in
Dampness on the wall due to capillary action
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Innovations in Green Buildings (The Griha Approach)
Interchangeable Section Rapid Roll-Up Doors with Counterweights from Gandhi Automation
andhi Automations, one of India's leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of access automation systems that has over the years installed thousands of systems across the country that include driveway gates, automatic doors, and electric gates for both commercial and residential sites. The company's vast exposure in design and installation of entrance automation systems for varied industries such as retail, health, transportation and logistics combined with dedicated and ongoing R&D helps its to understand what drives and challenges its customers business in order to provide the best solutions, the best value and to lead in innovation. Gandhi Automation's products and services are dedicated to satisfying end-user needs for safety, security, reliability and sustainability. Their product portfolio includes high speed industrial doors, sectional overhead doors, dock levelers and dock shelters, aircraft hangar doors and shipyard doors, fire shutters and doors, industrial sliding doors, motorized rolling shutters, tail lifts and scissor lifts and boom barriers and gates. As part of our comprehensive range of entrance automation solutions, the company offers Sector, Smart and Flash CS - Interchangeable Section Rapid Roll-Up Doors with counterweights. Highlights of Sector - Rationally Designed and Reliable Interchangeable Section Rapid-Roll-Up Door Ideal automatic door for fast access, goods and people transit areas, or for internal or external areas. Safe and reliable with modular counterweights and inverter.
Compact and technologically advanced, it features a modular counterweighted balancing system with strong driving belts, ensuring a high level of operation and safety, as well as an Inverter system to adjust speeds, accelerations and braking thus ensuring very high performance. The motor, by operating at the lowest possible power, prolongs the operating life of the automation. Fast, sturdy and reliable, it is suitable for any industrial or commercial premise. Self supporting, quick and easy to install. The self-supporting casing, located on the vertical uprights, ensures the door to be easily and quickly fitted, thus making the installation stage much easier; the casing also houses and protects all the drive parts. The quick wiring, if required, makes the installation quick and simple, and also ensures that the electrical connections are carried our correctly.
Smart - Simple, Practical, Reliable Smart's simplified installation and easily operable components makes it a practical and highly modular high-speed door that is practical to maintain, inspect and check. A sturdy and compact supporting structure with well designed and tested genuine Ditec motors and components, are the key features which make SMART a safe, aesthetically very unobtrusive door, easy and quick to fit. It's much reduced size allows it to be installed even where space is at a premium. The motor, mounted outside the door, can be supplied complete with the manual emergency reopening device.
Flash CS-Safe and Reliable with Modular Counterweights and Inverter Sturdy reliable and safe, it is the ideal automatic door for fast access, goods and people transit areas, or for internal areas of buildings.
Flash New
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Fourth International Congress on Computational Mechanics & Simulation
any requirement. Ditec's huge experience in the automatic entrance industry allows us to offer a range of push-buttons, radio controls, magnetic loops, selector switches, various technology radars, photocells which is equal to none. Three different versions of bottom safety edge: Passive edge: featuring a grey polyester coating. Electromechanical sensitive edge: simple obstruction detection system with immediate reversal of movement. Sof self testing safety rib: complete with system automatic control electronic circuit, built in the electronic panel, in compliance with 2006/ 42/EC and 89/106/EC European Directives. Long life, Efficiency assured Sector, Smart and Flash CS are safe and, suitably designed and accessorized, they comply with the strictest international standards. Gandhi Automations - Focusing on basics, low maintenance and environmental protection
Rapid Roll Up Doors
Flash CS is the most rationally designed and reliable full curtain rapid roll-up door in the range. It has been designed in order to produce a very practical and highly modular high-speed door to simplify installation and to allow all the components to be easily operated. A sturdy and compact supporting structure very well designed and tested genuine Ditec motors and components are the key features which make Flash CS a safe, aesthetically very unobtrusive door, easy and quick to fit and practical to maintain, inspect and check.
Self-supporting, Quick and Easy to Install The self-supporting casing, located on the vertical uprights in Sector, Smart and Flash CS, ensures the door to be easily and quickly fitted, thus making the installation stage much easier. The casing also houses and protects all the drive parts. The much reduced size allows it to be installed even where space is at a premium. Compact and technologically ad-
vanced, the doors feature a modular counterweighted balancing system with strong driving belts, ensuring a high level operation and safety, as well as an Inverter system to adjust speeds, accelerations and braking thus ensuring very high performance. The motor, by operating at the lowest possible power, prolongs the operating life of the automation. Fast, sturdy and reliable, they are suitable for any industrial or commercial premise. The version with see-through curtain is particularly suitable for high-class internal rooms and displays, yet ensuring high level of safety when the door is being crossed. The quick wiring, if required, makes the installation quick and simple, and also ensures that the electrical connections are carried out correctly. Safety, Technology and Environmental Protection Wide range of control, monitoring and safety accessories: Supplying a practical and sturdy door is just the beginning. It needs to be controlled with a suitable range of practical and safe control accessories suitable for
The doors are available in different designs which with growing levels of fittings and accessories make them suitable for different operating requirements and industry standards, still ensuring the highest level of safety when the door is used responsibly. It is also a responsible choice for the environment. In fact, the automation boasts all the components required for the type of installation without any unnecessary technical feature, leading to a major reduction of maintenance costs.

Gandhi Automations Pvt Ltd 2nd Floor, Chawda Commercial Centre Link Road, Malad (W,) Mumbai 400064. Ph: +91-22- 66720200, Fax: +91-22-66720201, E-mail: sales@geapl.co.in Web: www.geapl.co.in
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BC India - Bauma Conexpo Show
LiuGong CLG920D Hydraulic Excavator

he growth and spur in demand for the earthmoving equipments is to a large extent correlated with the growth in infrastructure and industrial sector. The earthmoving industry can achieve the greater heights and has a potential to grow manifold backed by Government of India initiatives in rapid expansion and development of infrastructure sector. The earthmoving equipments are of immense importance and plays very crucial role in timely execution of any projects. Today India has become a favorite manufacturing destination and a lot of multinationals have entered the Indian market in Earthmoving equipment sphere. This has led to the enhancement of features in equipment and now the country has almost a complete range of earthmoving equipments available. Liugong India Pvt. Ltd offers the full range of constructive solutions which includes Hydraulic Excavator, Wheel
Loaders, Motor Graders, and Compactors etc. Liugong has the wide range of hydraulic excavators starting from 8T up to 36T capacity catering to mining, construction, quarrying and other applications. Liugong offers the wide range of the excavators that straddles the diverse requirement of the customers. Liugong excavators are the new age hydraulic excavator which addresses the cutting edge technology segment which is widely accepted in the market for cost effectiveness in terms of fuel saving technology, easy maintainability and low operating cost. Liugong is now at the forefront in providing the latest technology, features and customization to the discerning Indian customer as per the standard set by the excavator world market. The D series excavator exemplifies this. With the pioneering offerings in the excavator range, Liugong has consis-
tently broken the new barriers in the evolution of the CE industry in the world. Liugong recognizes the need to offer speedier, more efficient and cost effective construction solutions to a nation on the cusp of the rapid growth. CLG920D is another manifestation of this recognition and is focused on the burgeoning needs of the urban as well as the rural utility applications segment. CLG920D is a versatile machine which gives the customer an opportunity to work in compact areas where traditional machines can't work. It is designed for Quality, comfort, safety, reliability and durability. The machine is designed to work in across all rural and urban applications and is suited for all Indian working conditions. Availability of application specific optional attachments is a key to success in Indian applications, and CLG920D is designed with all these features. The 360 degree swing and the
CLG920D
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CLG920D
compactness make the machine capable of digging in confined spaces. With this pocket size dynamo Liugong India is sure that the Indian Construction scenario would take quantum leap into a new dimension of mechanized excavation work in utility application and herald a new era in the industry. Additional Benefits of CLG920D excavator over the other machines are: Powerful Engine: MODEL:- Cummins 6BTAA5. 9C150HP , water cooled, 6 cylinder in line, turbo charged diesel engine. This engine offers excellent power enabling superior productivity. Good fuel efficiency, long service life and superior performance. Auto idling system resulting in lower fuel consumption and lower cab noise levels.
High capacity gear pump increases the pilot line efficiency thereby improves cycle time. Proven hydraulic system ensures optimum utilization of power results increased fuel efficiency. Shock absorbing mechanism is fitted in all cylinders to ensure shock free operation and extended piston life.
Auto idling system for less fuel consumption. Self-diagnostic and warning system. User friendly display
Cabin & Operator Environment: Spacious cabin with good visibility in all directions. Adjustable seat and less vibration in cabin to reduce operator's fatigue. Low noise design and excellent ventilation. Ergonomically designed.
Strong Structure High Reliability (Undercarriage, Boom & Arm): High quality steel for better durability. High speed swing mechanism is used to reduce cycle time. Heavy and reinforced boom structure with customized arm for maximum digging depth and rock breaking application.
Liugong provides support to its products through a wide range of dealer network spread across India. We strive to bring smile on the customer face by making their business more profitable.
Control System: Multi-functional colour LCD monitors panel display. Precise controllability with improved ergonomics.

Liugong India
E-mail: marketing-india@liugong.com Web:www.liugong.in
Hydraulic System: Positive flow hydraulic system for quick response.
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BAU 2013
AU 2013, the world's leading trade fair for architecture, materials, systems, takes place from January 14 to 19, 2013 at Messe Mnchen exhibition center. Once again the event is expected to attract around 2,000 exhibitors from more than 40 countries and approximately 240,000 visitors from all over the world. On show at BAU on 180,000 square meters of exhibition space will be
architectural solutions, materials and systems for commercial and residential construction and for interior fit-out, for both new-build and renovation and modernization purposes. Every two years this event brings together market leaders from the sector to participate in a unique international display of competence spanning all the construction trades. BAU is also the worlds largest trade fair for architects and construction
engineers, attracting around 50,000 design professionals. The exhibits at the fair are organized according to building material and also product and theme areas. Key topics for the future of the industry, such as sustainability and building for life, play an important role in all sections of the exhibition. The many attractive events in the supporting program, including high-caliber forums from all over the world, round off this industry showcase. BAU 2013 is a 180,000 m showcase of materials, technologies and systems. Thats the equivalent of 25 football pitches filled with state-of-theart technology for the international building and construction industry. In a five-part series, we present a succinct review of what the main focuses will be in 2013 in the individual sections at the fair. In Part 2, we look at stones and soils, bricks and roof building, and natural and cast stone and outdoor design. For a list of all the exhibitors at BAU 2013, the product groups and product presentations, go to the online catalog, at: www.bau-muenchen.com
Contact:
Johannes Manger and Benjamin Bttner Ph:+49 89/9 49-21482, Fax:+49 89/9 49-9721482
E-mail: Johannes.Manger@messe-muenchen.de Benjamin.Buettner@messe-muenchen.de
Web: www.messe-muenchen.de
As of: 1 March 2012 Subject to Change and Modification
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BMTPC - Appropriate Building Materials
Innovative and Practical Mineral Technologies from Wirtgen

he Wirtgen Group's Mineral Technologies division offers a well-matched range of products for mining and processing useful minerals with the Wirtgen Surface Miners and Kleemann crushing and screening machines. Extracting minerals in opencast deposits and processing mineral raw materials places great demands on man and machine. Durable, highperformance equipment is an absolute necessity. Thanks to its many years of experience in the field of mineral technologies, the Wirtgen Group has innovative and practical technologies which are adapted for the most extreme conditions of use imaginable. The robust machines offer great reliability and costeffectiveness for everything from material extraction to material processing. Wirtgen Surface Miners The established mechanical mining procedure is accomplished without conventional drilling, blasting and precrushing. Wirtgen uses its high-
performance cutting technology here. The surface miners function much like cold milling machines, cutting and crushing the rock with a special cutting roller. Sturdy conveyor systems load it onto dumpers or deposit it beside the surface miner. Alternatively, the rock can also be placed between the chassis behind the machine. The Wirtgen Surface Miners have cutting widths of 2.20 m to 4.20 m and cutting depths of 20 cm to 83 cm up to a uniaxial compressive strength of 120 MPa. Special machines for rock construction can even cut hard granite up to 260 MPa. Moreover, Wirtgen is the only manufacturer that covers a performance spectrum from 100 t/h to 3000 t/h. The product range: Individually configurable standard machines With the 2200 SM, 2500 SM and 4200 SM, Wirtgen offers three proven and tested performance classes which can be variably configured specifically for each project. All of the machines can be configured for loading the material
into dump trucks or depositing it as a windrow behind the machine. More than two dozen cutting roller designs are available as standard, while additional configurations are developed and built for the specific task at hand. The surface miners' fields of application include opencast mining and routing work on roads, railway lines and tunnels. They enable the selective extraction of valuable minerals, coal, limestone, gypsum, bauxite, phosphate and iron ore with great purity. Constant expansion of the spectrum of use means that surface miners are also used for special applications in salt mining, granite, kimberlite and oil shale. Kleemann crushing and screening machines The Wirtgen Group also offers a wide range of jaw, impact and cone crushers and as well as screening machines for processing mineral raw materials. Kleemann has been in the business of processing natural stone for more than 150 years. Pieces of rock obtained from drilling and blasting work in quarries are processed to defined grain sizes. These classified final granulations are used as standardized additives for concrete and for asphalt base, binder and surface courses in road construction as well as civil engineering. In addition, Kleemann products are designed to handle the hardest minerals and materials in the mining industry. Kleemann provides its customers with application consulting for selecting the right machine to suit their requirements. This ensures the most cost-effective mining of the given product in the daily production required. The product range: Single machine or interlinked machine combinations
4200SM_02484 Two Brands One Solution
Jaw crushers serve as classic primary
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crushers in natural stone. The mobile machines' performance spectrum ranges from 100 to 1500 t/h. Extremely robust, high-performance machines with feed capacities from 450 t/h to up to 1000 t/h are used for traditional quarry applications. Secondary crusher units such as track-driven impact and cone crushers are electrically interlocked to work in tandem with primary crushers and screens. The screen area of the chaindriven screening machines ranges from 7 to 18.4 m. Their performance spectrum runs all the way up to 1000 t/h, making them well-suited for demanding tasks and material which is difficult to screen. Stationary machines with capacities from 100 to 1000 t/h handle all of the individual processes in addition to crushing and screening, such as washing, sand processing,
mixing, dust collecting, etc., thus rounding off the range of offers. Two brands one solution The Wirtgen Group offers state-ofthe-art, extremely robust special machines in the field of mineral technologies with the Wirtgen Surface Miners and Kleemann crushing and screening machines. Thanks to the broad product range and decades of practical experience in application technology, customers receive tailormade solutions from a single source worldwide. This is ensured by more than 55 of our own sales and service companies and more than 100 selected dealers on location. To raise or lower the pivoting conveyor, the operator pulls the joystick back or pushes it forwards. The joystick is turned to execute a lateral
movement. A safety switch prevents displacement of the conveyor due to accidentally touching the joystick. The conveying capacity is controlled by two push-buttons on the joystick. The yellow button sets the standard conveying speed. This speed can be briefly overridden by pressing the white button if a particularly high conveying capacity is required. The conveyor speed is infinitely variable. Of course, all functions related to the conveying process can also be controlled from the operator's console.

Wirtgen India Pvt Ltd.
Gat No 301 & 302, Bhandgaon Khor Road, Bhandgaon, Taluka-Daund, Pune-412214. Ph: +91-2117-302600, E-mail: sales@wirtgenindia.com Web: www.wirtgenindia.com
Tihar Jail signs MOU with BARC to go solar

kitchen waste into biogas and manure and further produce electricity. The capacity of the plant is one ton per day. At present the waste is being transported and deposited at a landfill in Jahangirpuri costing more money. Setting up this plant will save money and contribute positvely to the environment, he said. This will not only reduce security concerns but also significantly decrease electricity costs. The authorities are planning to set up solarpowered plant for generating electricity. They expect to save ` 1 crore annually on electricity bills. BARC will set up the plant through one of the agencies to whom they have transferred the technology under its technical guidance, the plant will be operated and run by the same agency. Barc will provide the technical consultancy for construction, installation, operation and maintenance of the plant, he said. Tihar authorities will provide about 50 sq m land for the plant and supply electricity and water supply. The jail authorities will pay ` 12 lakhs for construction of plant, machineries, subsystems and installation. They will pay ` 3 lakhs a year to the agency to maintain the plant
Tihar Jail has been committed to contributing positively to the environment by using recycled material and other efforts. The idea is to have sustainable energy and proper waste management, Tihar law officer and spokesperson Sunil Gupta said. Tihar Jail authorities has signed a memorandum of understanding with Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) to set up a Nisargruna biogas plant based on biodegradable waste in sub-jail number 2 to convert biodegradable
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Ahuja Towers: A New Landmark in the Making

n Mumbai, the premier port city of the Indian subcontinent, a new landmark is taking shape: Ahuja Towers is rising skywards in Prabhadevi, on the densely populated south side of this giant metropolis. on completion, the 213 m twin tower will house multistorey car parks on ten podium levels, and luxurious apartments on a further 41 storeys. Doka India supplied the site with the self-climbing Protection screen Xclimb 60, delivering a very
substantial boost to workplace safety. For the design of the Ahuja Towers, the Singapore-based architecture firm P & T took its cue from the wind-filled sails of the boats along the Mumbai coastline: this highrise project will enrich the skyline of Mumbai with a visually most appealing facet. The acute lack of space in and around the site has posed a major challenge to the clients and the contractors. Ahuja Towers is situated in
the densely populated district of Prabhadevi and is boxed in by residential buildings, industrial estates and a busy main road. A tight schedule and perfect timing are essential here if construction is to proceed smoothly. The safety of site employees and local residents is also extremely important especially in view of the high wind-speeds often measured here. To prevent items of equipment from falling off and to protect the crew, Doka supplied its protection screen Xclimb 60 for Ahuja Towers. Given the very tight timeframe, a crane-independent solution had to be found. Protection from wind and weather Thanks to the all-round gapless enclosure of the top building-levels by the Protection screen Xclimb 60 and the fact that this is anchored to the structure at all times, all work can be carried out protected from climatic influences and in the very greatest safety. The protection screen's high degree of pre-assembly simplified the planning and made for a highly economical solution. As Xclimb 60 has been fielded here as a self-climbed system, fast resetting times are possible without crane assistance. Doka scored with the client, Chennai-based Larsen & Toubro, for its reliability and for its round-the-clocksupport for L&T's technical staff right from the first assembly step. Larsen & Toubro project director Dinesh Kumar Khatri is very satisfied with the partnership. The Protection screen Xclimb 60 helps the crew by giving them a safe environment to work in. And being able to reposition it cranelessly also means we can work much more efficiently. Work has been underway on Ahuja Towers since February 2010 and is scheduled for completion in September
Under construction in India's business capital Mumbai and due for completion by March 2013 is Ahuja Towers, a 240 m twin tower whose shape is inspired by the sails of the boats off the coast.
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Doka India supplied the site with the self-climbing Protection screen Xclimb 60, which shields the building work from wind and weather and ensures a high degree of safety.
The severe space constraints on and around the Ahuja Towers site have confronted the client and the site team with a major challenge: exact timing is an abolute 'must' here.
2013. Once completed, the twin tower by then enveloped in sleek structural glazing will be a Number 1 Mumbai Address for luxurious living, offering residents exclusive views of the sailing boats off the coast on the Arabian Sea. In brief Contractors: Larsen & Toubro, Chennai Start of construction: February 2010 Completion scheduled for September 2013 Height: 213 m Architects: P & T, Singapore
Systems fielded: Protection screen Xclimb 60 About Doka Doka is one of the world leaders in developing, manufacturing and distributing formwork technology for use in all fields of the construction sector. With more than 160 sales and logistics facilities in over 70 countries, the Doka Group has a highly efficient distribution network which ensures that equipment and technical support are provided swiftly and professionally. An enterprise
forming part of the Umdasch Group, the Doka Group employs a worldwide workforce of more than 5600.

Doka India Pvt Ltd
Plot No. 26 A, Sector-7, Kharghar Mahavir Landmark Bldg., 601 to 606, 6th Floor, Navi Mumbai - 410210 Ph: +91 - 7738031376 Email: ankit.khandelwal@doka.com Web: www.doka.com
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Nafuclar: Surface Retarder for Exposed Aggregates Finishes

afuclar range of surface retarders for production of exposed aggregates concrete finishes is manufactured by utilizing latest polymer technology of MCBauchemie Germany by MC-Bauchemie (India) Private Limited. Nafuclar is used for roughening the concrete surfaces to enable keying of future plasters to obtain better bonding. Nafuclar is available in several grades like W 32, W 16, W 08, W 04, for different sizes of aggregates and for different depths of etching. Nafuclar S is also available for providing sand faced effect on the surfaces. These properties of Nafuclar enable the architect to design the surfaces and exteriors and interiors in various types. Rounded and coloured aggregates can be incor-
porated in the mix to give several effects. Nafuclar is also an excellent aid for precast manufacturers of vases, flowerbeds, ashtrays, garden paving, kerbstones, etc. The use not only imparts the surfaces aesthetic view but also avoids the dusting of surfaces, as cement slurry does not come into contact with foot traffic etc. Nafuclar in normal face down process should be applied to the formwork and allowed to dry. It has mould release properties therefore additional form oil is not necessary. A special grade of Nafuclar called Nafuclar P 20 is available for spraying on the wet surfaces, this enables exposed aggregate surfaces on both the sides for compound walls, partition walls. Etc. The concrete normal or with special aggregates can be cast
in the normal fashion. After opening the form work the next day, the surfaces should simply be cleaned with a jet of water to obtain a flawless exposed aggregate surfaces with even depth of etching. By virtue of formulation only the top cement skin is retarded and other aggregates are more firmly bound in the mass of concrete to avoid falling off of the aggregates.

MC Bauchemie (India) Pvt. Ltd.
411, Arenja Corner, Sector 17, Vashi, Navi Mumbai - 400703, Ph:+91-22-27892856/27880803, Fax:+91-22-27893870, E-mail: Info.india@mc-bauchemie.com Web: www.mc-bauchemieindia.com
India and France sign Administrative Agreement in the field of Sustainable Urban Development
Shri Kamal Nath, Union Minister of Urban Development, and Ms. Nicole Bricq, Minister for Foreign Trade, Government of France signed an administrative agreement in the field of sustainable urban development in Paris. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Kamal Nath expressed appreciation for the related work in the field of sustainable urban development carried out in France and felt that India could benefit immensely from the French experience. The two Ministers discussed ways to enhance economic and commercial relations between the countries. Shri Nath briefed the French Minister about the recent decisions taken by the Government of India to further liberalise the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) regulations in India and reiterated the Government's commitment to continuing with liberalization of the Indian economy. The implementation of this agreement will take place under the aegis of the Indo-French Joint Working Group on Urban Development comprising representatives from the Ministry of Urban Development (India) and the Ministry of Regional Equality & Housing and the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development & Energy (France).
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Forensic Geotechnical Engineering
Automatic Rebar Cutter cutPRO32
xpensive labour and productivity are still major concerns in the current aggressive building /construction industry. Though people are adapting mechanization in several areas still a lot needs to be done to optimize labour cost. Here we introduce an advanced Bar cutting machine with integrated Feed mechanism and a digital Length control system. The model is called cutPRO32 The full-length bar is positioned in the machine and the required length is registered in the controller. The machine is now set to cut the bar at the preset length in a continuous automatic mode. Maximum bar size is 32; and smaller size bars can be cut in multiples. A typical Rebar processing setup may handle 100 tons per day, three such machines with max three semiskilled workmen can cope with such requirement, without installing any additional accessories and conveyors.
The machine is also acceptable on a large project site where productivity and labour is a concern. The machine works on electro hydraulic drive with all standard parts ensures high reliability and ease on maintenance. A PLC controller is an optional feature where this machine can be made smarter such as storing programs, display days work done etc. and also enhance machine performance. Demo view on you-tube: http://youtu.be/hLHB-n8chUc Automatic Stirrup Bender stpPRO Stirrups is a huge requirement and to deal with this issue is still major concerns in the current building / construction industry. Foreign companies are aggressively marketing Automatic stirrup benders but the cost and expertise to use such machines is beyond reach for most in our country. Here we introduce a completely
indigenous machine. The model is called stpPRO. This stpPRO accepts full length pre-straightened bars; Bar sizes 8x2 / 10x2 / 12x1 / 16x1. The machine is bidirectional capable hence it can form complex stirrup shapes with speed and accuracy. The advance electro-hydraulic drive chain coupled with Mitsubshi plc controller ensures high performance and reliability. The system can store 500 programs. Demo view on you-tube: http://youtu.be/Z0VIPZmwF_w

Consolidated Machines
H- 137 Ansa Indl. Estate, Saki Vihar Road, Mumbai 400 072. India. Ph: + 91 22 2847 0036 Telefax: + 91 22 2851 86 25 Mob: 98200 77035 Email: consolidatedmachines@gmail.com
Web: www.consolidatedmachines.net
Rebar Cutting Machine cutPRO32; Integrated with an automatic Feeder & Digital Length control system Max bar size 32x500 grade, multiple bar cutting for smaller bar sizes Production capacity : 20/40 T per shift Electro-hydraulic drive with all standard parts.
Fully Automatic Stirrup Bender. stpPRO Bar sizes accepted: 8 to 16. Advance electro-hydraulic drive chain coupled with Mitsubshi plc controller ensures high performance and reliability. Program Storage capacity: 500 Installed Power : 5hp.
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Buildmat-2013
Waterproofing
Advances in Waterproofing Materials & Technology

Associate Editor
Water leakage is a serious recurring problem and the traditional approach from the negative side is, at best, a short term solution. Performance of most waterproofing technologies today falls short of expectations, often resulting in continuing damage and economic loss. The key to perfect waterproofing is to solve these existing problems with the positive approach.
Waterproofing is defined as a treatment of a surface or structure to prevent the passage of water under hydrostatic pressure as per ACI committee 515. Waterproofing is one of the most important parameters considered in the construction of building and structures to prevent leakages, dampness etc and making the structures durable. For waterproofing latest advanced technologies are being used worldwide. Leaks and dampness in walls, ceilings, roofs, etc. can certainly be prevented. It is important to appreciate that in a country like India with its seasonal heavy rainfall, efficient waterproofing of structures should receive the utmost attention right at the time of construction itself. Many builders tend to neglect this primary precaution, notwithstanding the fact that the pre-monsoon repairs soon turn out to be more expensive than pre-planned preventive measures during construction. Commonly used Waterproofing Systems till date The old traditional systems of waterproofing have certain limitations and being replaced by modern waterproofing systems. These are different types of waterproofing such as admixtures, impregnation, film forming membrane, surfacing, joint seal and grouting. - Admixtures - Admixtures are used in concrete during
Waterproofing
construction for different purposes. The various types of mineral admixtures such as lime, silica, fly-ash and chemical admixtures like plasticizers, super plasticizers, water reducers and high range water reducers, accelerators, retarders, viscosity modifying admixtures, air entraining admixtures and shrinkage reducing admixtures are widely used for specific purposes. But all these help to reduce the water content of the mix and make the concrete dense, compact, crack free and durable and thus able to make leakage free structure. - Impregnation - For waterproofing of old and new structures, impregnation type being used. In this method the solution is penetrated into the pore structure considering three different actions such as hydrophobic, partial filling, and filling. For the hydrophobic phase silane, siloxane, diffused quartz carbide solution are being used. For the partial filling phase silicone, sodium silicate (densifier/hardener) solutions are being used. For filling low viscosity epoxy and methacrylate solutions are being used. - Film Forming Membrane - This may be a liquid applied waterproofing coating or a preformed elastomeric membrane. - Surfacing - For waterproofing, asphalt, concrete, epoxy mortar, polymer concrete, polymer modified mortar etc. are used as an overlayment or cover over concrete. - Sealants- Joints are the necessary important part of the structures as it acts a link between various parts of structures such as column-beam joint, column-slab joint, slab-slab joint, beam-beam joint, floor-floor joint etc. all these joints should be sealed with proper sealants. The conventional methods of lime concrete, brick bat cob a though are still in use as waterproofing system but these methods are slowly becoming obsolete due to their short life and complexity of their application. In between polymeric membrane as a waterproofing coating gained popularity because of its abundant availability as a by product from petroleum at a cheaper price. About Polymeric Membranes Polymeric materials - acrylics, epoxy resins, polysulphides, polyurethanes and silicones - have been employed in many forms for waterproofing applications in building and construction. Elastomeric sheeting materials - such as neoprene, butyl, hypaion, PVC, rubberized asphalt - have been used for waterproofing of roofs in several countries. Their high cost and unknown performance in tropical climates have, however, been reasons for non-acceptance of these materials so far in India. Polymeric membranes represent a transformation to a superior, factory made component that reduces field work, where quality control is most difficult. Considered the next
stage in the evolution of traditional built-up membrane, modified polymeric membranes reduce the2 or 3-ply, fieldfabricated membrane to a more flexible, ductile sheet of 1 or 2 plies. The slightly higher material cost is generally offset by its cost effectiveness in the long run. Two types of polymers dominate the modified membrane with their outstanding performance. 1. Atactic polypropylene (APP) 2. Styrene Butadiene styrene (SBS) The two major polymers APP &SBS, differ fundamentally in the chemical nature. APP is aplastomer whereas SBS is an elastomer. This chemical difference manifests it self physically in much greater elasticity for SBS- based modified bitumen, with more nearly uniform properties through wider temperature range e.g. greater flexibility at low temperature. APP modified bitumen are generally stronger and stiffer than SBS modifieds. They also greater resistance to high temperatures. SBS vs APP SBS modified membranes offer greater versatility, in application techniques than APP modified membranes. APP modifieds with their high polymer content can be melted onlyvia propane torching. With their much lower polymer content, SBS modified bitumen can be hot mopped at application temperature around 2200F. Reinforcement of Polymeric Membrane Most of the polymer modified bitumen membranes are available with reinforcement at the core in the form of Fibre glass mat, Non woven polyester mat & high molecular high density polyethylene with varied grammage. The Reinforcement at the core serves the following purposes. - - - - Increases tensile strength and puncture resistance. As a fire protection enhancement. As a structural element bridging substrate gaps. Enhances some elongation capabilities.
The particular properties imparted by reinforcement depend on following factors: a. The type of fabric b. Material.
Figure 1: Cross section of polymer modified membrane with reinforcement
Waterproofing
The predominant materials used as reinforcement are glass fibres and polyester. Glass fibres provide better dimensional stability, fire resistance and ultra violet resistance. Polyester mat provides greater strain energy. Polyester also has greater flexibility and fatigue and puncture resistance (Refer Figure 1). Figure 2 below demonstrates a typical application process of reinforced polymer membranes on RCC roof. Latest Addition to Water Proofing Technology Though all the polymeric membranes are widely used yet their performance today falls short of expectations, often resulting in continuing damage and economic loss. Figure 3
depicts the shortfalls of these technology and expectations from an ideal waterproofing material.
(a) Surface Preparation
(b) Primer application
(c) Rolling and aligning the membrane (d) Torching of membrane and pressing
Figure 3: Limitations of modern waterproofing technologies and requirement from an ideal waterproofing material. (e) Overlapping the membrane for minimum 100 mm (f)Finishing at joints with slight torching
Some of the latest additions to the waterproofing technology are being discussed below which tries to overcome the above mentioned shortfalls. (A) Thermoplastic & Thermo set Membranes-Single ply synthetic roofing membrane based on thermoplastic & thermo set technology are the latest addition to the waterproofing membrane family besides polymeric modified bituminous membrane.
(g) Finishing at parapet
h) Finishing with aluminium paint for non-foot traffic area and protective screed for foot traffic area
Figure 2: Typical application process of Reinforced Polymer Membranes
Thermo set membranes are those whose principle polymers are chemically cross linked. This chemical cross-linkage is commonly referred as vulcanization. Main characteristic of thermo set polymers is once they are fully cured they can be
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Waterproofing
bonded to like material with an adhesive. The four common sub-categories of thermo set roof membranes are - - - - Neoprene (CR) Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene (CPSE) Epichlorohydrine (ECH) Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Unlike thermo set membranes, thermoplastic membrane are different because there is no chemical cross linking. Thermoplastic membranes are single ply flexible sheet material that are divided into seven general sub categories. - - - - - - - Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Copolymer Alloy (CPA) Ethylene Interpolymer (EIP) Nitrile Alloys (TPA) Tripolymer Alloy (TPA) Chlorinated Polyethylene (CPE) Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO)
to isolate water infiltration due to an installation defect or puncture. But some advanced technology has evolved where if the thermoplastic membrane is punctured, its Active Polymer Core (APC) activates with the water to seal the breach thus preventing water infiltration in to the structure. Active Polymer Core Technology activates and seals water breach through the thermoplastic membrane automatically and reliably. Unlike conventional thermoplastic waterproofing membranes, expensive grid containment systems are not required to maintain or control water infiltration. Additionally, the APC geo textile layer provides a protective cushion to decrease the potential of the thermoplastic membrane to be punctured from irregular substrate surface texture. Figure 4 shows advantage of APC technology over the conventional technology. (C)A new concept in waterproofing material has come up which forms a gel that expands and adheres to any leaking area upon contact with water. This gel is formed by combining a polymer resin of rubberized asphalt with special adhesives. It seeks out leaks and expands to repair damaged layers. It absorbs movement and vibration to minimize damage and separation. This material can be applied as a membrane sheet or a repair material in any environment (Refer Figure 5). The benefit attained with such materials are as mentioned below:- Responsive to substrate movement and absorbs vibration due to the gels flexibility and dampening capabilities - Materials are non-degradable and thus maintain a continuous waterproofing layer
Figure 4: Advantage of APC Technology Over Conventional Membrane Technology
- Not affected by foreign substance, maintaining consistent adhesive, stable waterproof coating - Self-sealing and expands upon contact with water - Workability in wet conditions or underwater structures - Superior tensile strength and tear resistance - Superior repetitive fatique resistance - Soft sheet facilitates work on bent parts - Excellent viscosity (D)Nano technology in waterproofing building materialsThe new development in science & technology has allowed using the latest nano technology to produce eco-friendly Organo-Silicon products to waterproof practically all the different kinds of building materials. Nano technology has ensured that service life of this approach will lead to life cycles beyond 20 to 30 years at very economical cost. There are two classes of waterproofing products: a) Film Formers - The economics and the ease of application have led to widespread use of film forming water repellents.
Flexible PVC membrane in the thermoplastic category & EPDM in the thermo set category are becoming quite popular though Neoprene, thermoplastic Olefins are also being used for specific requirements. (B) Active Polymer Technology The predominate problem with conventional thermoplastic waterproofing membranes is that since they are installed loose laid they require an expensive grid anchoring system
Figure 5: Physical properties of Gel based materials
Waterproofing
The products like acrylic paint, silicon polymers are commonly used in the world for waterproofing application. These film formers have particle size greater than 100 nm, which will not allow them to penetrate inside the pores of the building materials but form a film covering and preventing the surface from water absorption. b) Penetrants - Most penetrants are solvent based, soluble monomeric material with less than 6nm size. They easily penetrate inside the pores and sub-branches of the pores. There are two types of penetrants i.e. non reactive and reactive. Experimentally it has been seen that Silane based waterproofing products are desirable for long-term performance. Silanes and Silane/Siloxanes are known as new class of waterproofing products. These products are used in USA and Europe for last 30 years. However only last few years they became available in India. The solvent based silane waterproofing compounds are proven to provide long lasting performance and are used very widely in USA and Europe. The various alkyl silanes that are used for waterproofing are (i) isobutyltrialkoxysilane (ii) n-octyltrialkoxysilane. Therefore, these types of products impart water repellency by modifying surface characteristics from hydrophilic to hydrophobic. Standards for Performance Tests for Waterproof Concrete: The various standards for performance tests for waterproof concrete are: - - - - BS 1881 : Part 122 : 1983 water absorption DIN 1048 : Part 5 : 1991 water penetration ASTM C 642 permeable voids and water absorption AASHTO T 277/ASTM C-1202 Rapid chloride permeability
Quality Assurance and Quality Control The waterproofing system should become a part of designing and detailing for ensuring the proper installation of each component. Quality control to be taken such as to check prepour preparations for slab castings, to supervise at the batch plant, to supervise at the concrete placement, to check prepour installation for seals and hoses prior to casting of wall elements, to ensure proper compaction and placement of concrete during casting, to ensure proper and sufficient curing of concrete after casting, to inspect construction joints for defects prior to installation of membranes, to ensure proper records were kept for all activities etc. Conclusion The construction industry must make every effort to solve the problems that are inherent in the use of current materials and technologies. In recent times the increasing cost of new construction as well as of repairs and restoration of constructed buildings, led essentially by escalating raw materials and labour costs, is making project developers and owners opt for effective and advanced waterproofing products and solutions. There is also an increasing perception amongst the project developers and owners that the longlasting concrete structures alone should not suffice. The requirement of waterproofing should be coupled with aesthetics and also with the environmental demands. Reference
- Supradip Das, Polymeric Membrane - Recent Developments in Waterproofing. Civil Engineering & Construction Review. Sept01. Aggarwal L. K. Developments in waterproofing of building: requirements, trends and guidelines. Civil Engineering & Construction Review. Sept01. Advances in Waterproofing Materials & Technology, ReBuild, Vol. 5 No. 1 (Jan-Mar 2011)A Quarterly Newsletter. www.CETCO.com www.re-systemsingapore.com M.C.Roco, R.S. Williams, and P . Alivisatos, Nanotechnology Research Directions: IWGN Research Report. ARI News, Nanotechnology in Constructionone of the Top Ten Answers to WorldsBiggestProblems.2005, www. aggregateresearch.com. Y.Akkaya,S.P Shah, M.Ghandehari, Influence of Fiber Dispersion on the Performance of Micro fiber Reinforced Cement Composite ACI Special Publications 216:Innovations in FiberReinforced Concrete for Value,SP-216-1, vol.216, 2003,pp.118. N. Gupta and R. Maharsia, Enhancement of Energy Absorption in Syntactic Foams by Nanoclay, Incorporation for Sandwich Core Applications, Applied Composite Materials, Vol. 12, 2005,pp. 247261
In addition the structural designer and architect has to specify the requirements depending on the exposure conditions. DIN 1048 recognizes that a water penetration of 50 mm or less represents a concrete that is waterproof and water penetration of 30 mm or less is usually specified for severe exposure conditions. Additional Performance Tests for Durable Concrete- For a durable concrete structure the concrete should have following specifications such as: - The design of concrete mix should be considered for a design life of 120 years. - As per ASTM C642 specifications the absorption of concrete should not exceed 4 % and the permeable voids should not exceed 10%. - As per AASHTO T 277 and ASTM C1202, the chloride permeability of concrete should not exceed 1000 coulombs.
- - - - -
Workforce Training
On the Job Training: Increasing Acceptability by Industry

Sunil Mahajan
Director, Construction Industry Development Council
from books is essenKnowledge tial we are all aware of that. However in real life, especially in industry, what is more important is the ability to put that knowledge into practice. In the construction industry this is a paramount requirement for any of its personnel. If during training, theory and practice can be combined, we have an ideal situation. The practice done in laboratories of the educational institution is really a pale shadow in its effect as compared to the practice, conducted under the supervision of experts, in field conditions. OJT or On Job Training is essentially designed to have a combined theory and on-site practical training. CIDC launched this program in December 2011 and the model has been widely welcomed by all segments of the industry including many of the leading companies in this industry. The delivery model of this CIDC program is as follows: Step 1: 30 days of intense orientation, hands on practicals and theory classes including technical skills and soft skills required on the field. This phase is conducted partly at the regional centres and partly at CIDC's main training centre in Faridabad. Step 2: Trainees in batches of around 20 each, are deployed together with a
master trainer, to the construction site. The host of the site treats them like his own work force and puts them to work. The trainer guides and supervises the work being done by the trainees. This phase lasts for 60 days. Step 3: The contractor at the end of 2 months of OJT training has first right of refusal for employment of any or all of the trainees. The trainer and the unplaced trainees return to CIDC. The advantages for the host company are obvious. For a stipend plus costs of living and accommodation, they have the choice of picking up employees who are relatively well-educated (generally 12Th pass, graduates and even some post-graduates) persons who can be groomed in-house for senior supervisory roles in the future. Further there are no obligations to keep any of the trainees if they are unable to fit into the company's operating environment. At present around 43 leading construction companies have signed MOUs with CIDC for participation in this program. Around 3240 personnel have since been trained and placed across the country with another 1700 undergoing this training or registered for it. CIDC's own training centres at Faridabad in Haryana, Siddhauli and
Amethi in UP and Vishwakarma Ekadash at Orissa are packed to capacity with trainees in most of the major trades of the Construction Industry. The On-Job Training (or OJT) model of Training has taken off very well, indeed. For details, please write in to cidc@cidc.in, or call Mr Deepak Mazumdar at +919811644761.
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Infrastructure
Need People with Commitment

S N Subrahmanyan keeps his audience thinking with his words
M J Krishna
Associate Editor
arsen & Toubro's SN Subrahmanyan perhaps would not qualify to serve with the government's Foreign Service. This is a man who seems to speak out the facts and call spades as such. When he spoke on the occasion of the 176th AGM of the Madras Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the audience was august, as were the special guests on stage. Excerpts from his talk and interaction at the event: Unlocking the complication of Infrastructure Infrastructure is really complicated. One such recent instance is the state-ofthe-art solid waste management facility that came up in the city of Thiruvananthapuram. Though the courts had judged in favour of the facility, protest from some people has stalled it for another 3-4 years! We are like this only! This is a term that all of us have been used to... or does one want to say we can be like that also? Many other countries that have not been endowed with a wealth like ours, have thought, planned and driven themselves to do much better than what we are. China is a classic example when the country has gone fifty years ahead of India. Much smaller countries like Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia have also gone much ahead small countries in the middle east are doing the same; oil is running out but they have built an infrastructure and they would be where they are for a long time to come... INDIA, 2030 By the year 2025, India's population
would grow by 12 % and its GDP , 4.8 %. The country would reach 1.5 billion then, and a land mass one fourth the size of the US would hold four times the population of that country... with so much less underground wealth in the country, this is really not sustainable... Unless we do something about it, this story of growing Indian population and inadequate infrastructure would be talked about in various fora around the world... By 2030, it would take 1.2 trillion of infrastructure investment to meet even very basic demands in the country... 700900 million square meters of commercial and residential space is required; it is equivalent to two Mumba is every year! We require 2.5 million sq.meters of roads. The only way to go across the cities would be by underground metros, a network that can move 1 - 2 million every day. In the case of water supply, from 83 million liters per day a few years back, the
consumption has risen to 189 M liters today. Singapore shows the way The water tapped today from Malaysia would soon run out, but Singapore is prepared for it. Every road in Singapore has got large water storage facilities. Every building harvests rain water. In the water supply caverns, one can see humans walking comfortably; the facility is good enough to eat and live there inside the sewer. In India, funds are allocated for good sewer infrastructure, maybe the privatepublic partnership (PPP) would work in some places, but it is not sustainable the government cannot shy away from its primary responsibility of providing for the huge demand... Car companies are rolling out over a million cars annually today, touching ten million when we consider two wheel-
(From Right) S N Subrahmanyan, S Ramadorai, T T Srinivasaraghavan
Infrastructure
ers and all other vehicles. Where do we have the roads for that? China has 650 tunnel boring machines working in fifty cities today. In India, we have around forty, including at our hydel sites... China has underground transport in 25 cities with 400 km length each, while we have only Delhi that is poised to touch the 400 km length in the next few years... It is hence going to be very difficult to catch up. On affordable housing, the demand of 28 M sft is only increasing... unless we find innovative ways to meet the demand, we are not going to reach it. We have got to improve on local governance. Infosys' Narayana Murthy is right when he says that local bodies must consist of people with sound backgrounds to practise and provide sound governance. Good governance is primary. The next is the subject of finance. Governments today have run into huge deficits. Because States go without the finance for infra projects, PPP has not been a success. Unplanned Expansion Unplanned expansion without the approval of town planning and village authorities is creating another bottleneck; Unless we do meticulous planning and unless the government is strict about rules and enforces them, the situation will continue to deteriorate. Greater Delhi, Cyberabad & Navi Mumbai- A Positive Sign One positive thing is the development of Greater Delhi. Well-planned cities like Noida, Faridabad, Gurgaon and Dwaraka have come up, very well developed, some by the government and predominantly by private developers. Cyberabad outside Hyderabad is another example. Navi Mumbai is one more. We need to go outside the cities for them to grow and for people to live a safer and better life. Oman, Planning for the future During a visit to Oman, we found that even in tiny villages where very few inhabitants were living, the government had provided excellent water treatment and sewage facilities... the water they use is treated and then recycled for
If countries like Singapore and Oman can do long-term planning and well, India might well take a leaf from them
washing and toilet purposes, as also to water the date plantations. If Oman can do it, why can't we! Highways and City Planning In India, development is along the highways because the business is done along the highways. That is dangerous because when a highway comes up, a bypass for a city comes up, if the development of the city comes all along the highway, the traffic and vehicular movement get hindered. Offsets need to be provided from the highways to develop major cities so that the highways go on from one place to another. Highways are the arterial movements of the cities and if you don't develop them and protect them for high-speed movements, the economy will collapse. When we develop cities, we need to do for the masses in addition to the elite. Mumbai is doing it very well; they give the transfer development rights, and the slum areas are transformed into mass housing; the former slum dwellers live in concrete houses, there is better production, as also protection for them. In addition, a large area is now available for development because the mass housing is changed to vertical from horizontal. The Power issue: The scarcity of power is due to several factors, among them, coal allotment, land issues, and the huge investment. GE's Jack Welch once said that one thing that might pull back the country is the lack of megawatts. This is what is precisely happening today. The entire industry will come
to a standstill without power. Diesel gensets are not the answer. Delhi Airport The Delhi Airport project was the largest in the country, where six million square feet of space was in a single place. When we got the job, the promoters, GMR and our engineers were worried if this kind of a project could be handled by us. However, we took up the challenge with confidence, infused so many firsts in such projects and completed it well in time. It gave us a great matter of pride that we Indians could do it! If that kind of a structure can be done by Indian engineers, most of the tough projects in infrastructure can be done by us... we have the talent, the knowledge and the skills. What we need is the avenue and the forum to do it. The need for skilled resources Today, at L&T, we employ 22,000 engineers, and a labour force that would exceed three hundred and seventy five thousand at our sites, not counting our sub-contractors. One of the things that would prevent India from growing further is the lack of availability of skilled people in engineering, technical as also specialized skills like carpentry, etc. Whatever we do, we need to have facilities to train people, to hone their skills and make them contribute skillfully to good development. One has to put money where the mouth is. A skilled workforce is a serious fact of life and India's growth story depends primarily on it!
Feedback: mj.masterbuilder@gmail.com
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Interaction
RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME

he resounding success of the inaugural bC India Expo held in 2011 reiterated the fact that India is one of the key markets to watch out for globally for construction equipment. The show exceeded all expectations and was in a way symbolized the coming of age of the Indian construction equipment industry. The second edition of the trade show is slated to be held at the Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai from 5 -8 February, 2013. With the recent round of economic reforms expected to trigger a turnaround of the economy sooner than later, the construction equipment trade show could not have been timed better. In a freewheeling interview with The Masterbuilder, Mr.Thomas Lffler, CEO bC India Expo and Deputy CEO, MMI India Pvt Ltd, spoke about a range of topics including, the scale of the event, the expectations from the trade show and the reason behind choosing Mumbai as the venue, among others. Here are excerpts from the interview. Mr. Lffler, the first edition of bC India 2011 was a huge success. What can we expect from the second edition in 2013? The BAUMA CONEXPO SHOW bC India held 8 to 11 February 2011 at the Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai, exceeded all expectations: 508 exhibitors from 36 countries and 24,823 visitors from 71 countries attended the first edition of the International Trade Fair for Construction Machinery, Building Material Machines, Mining Machines and Construction Vehicles. The event is a joint venture between Messe Mnchen International (MMI) and the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM).
bC INDIA - 2012
This result shows clearly that our decision to launch bC India just came at the right time at the right place. Further more, the number of exhibitors as well as the feedback from all participants evidence impressively that bC India truly is a new dimension for the construction industry. 97% of the visitors rated bC India as good to excellent according to a survey conducted during bC India 2011. 99% of the visitors said they would come back to visit bC India 2013. With respect to the exhibitors 91% rated bC India as good to excellent which is an outstanding result. bC India 2013 takes place from 5 to 8 February, 2013 at the Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai. Responding to very strong demand from exhibitors, the exhibition space for bC India 2013 has been extended to a total of around 150,000 square meters. All in all, more than 700 exhibitors will showcase their latest products and innovations with regards to construction equipment, mining machinery, building material
machinery, construction vehicles, and spare parts. Around 40,000 trade visitors from India and abroad are expected. We are again offering an online registration for bC India visitors. All those who register online will receive their badge by e-mail free of charge. All who do not register online have to queue up on-site and pay an entrance fee. With this concept we guaranteed a top quality audience at bC India 2011. 84% of all exhibitors rated the quality of bC India 2011 visitors as excellent to good a result which we are very proud on. The online registration is already functional. Please visit www.bCindia.com/register. The international character of bC India will be underlined through national pavilions expected from China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, Spain and UK all showcasing state-of-the-art technology produced in their countries. Last time you had a long waiting list of companies who wanted to exhibit but you did not have enough space on offer. Could you solve this problem for bC India 2013? Beside to the global players which participated already in the first show, many new key exhibitors like JCB, Hyundai, Case, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ashok Leyland, Cifa, Shantui and more will take part at bC India 2013. Many companies have booked more space than at the first event. The response from the exhibitors and industry is excellent. Considering the same, we booked more space. It is with pleasure that I invite new exhibitors who wish to participate in the show. Hope that they do not miss this opportunity to present their technologies to an audience from all over India and neighboring countries.
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As an interested exhibitor or visitor, how can one participate in the show? All you have to do it send in a mail to info@bcindia.co.in or contact our office at +91 22 4255 4711. You can even download the Application Form and other details from our website http://www.bcindia.com/en/Exhibitors/ Application For trade visitors interested to visit the show, you can pre-register online to avoid the onsite registration charges and the queue. For pre-registration, please visit www.bcindia.com/register. The online pre-registration ends on 31 January 2013. How will Indian construction fraternity benefit from the show? India, as the world's seventh largest country by area and second biggest by population, is one of the most dynamically growing, but has largely untapped construction equipment markets. In the recent years, the country has witnessed massive investment in
the construction industry from both the public and private sector. The consequence of governmental investment in infrastructure development for large and fast track projects and the requirements to realize these projects will be an increased demand for specialized construction equipment. The variety of latest technologies which will be showcased at bC India 2013, will give visitors the opportunity to compare equipment from Indian and International manufacturers in order to meet the requirements for these kinds of projects. The launch show in 2011 did an impressive job of putting this quality standard to the test. bC India provides the construction industry with a professional platform for networking, investment and the exchange of ideas and information. In 2013, bC India will again be highlighting themes which will shape the future of building, and which are of outstanding importance for all segments of the construction industry. How do you see the construction
industry shaping up in the coming years? The construction equipment market will largely be driven by the planned development of infrastructure and the economic growth of the country according to the 12th Five Year Plan (April 2012-March 2017). The government has planned investments of nearly UD$1.0 trillion on infrastructure which is the highest ever for any Five Year Plan. I am confident this will have positive effects on the construction industry and eventually also on the construction equipment market. A lot of work is yet to be done with regards to infrastructure projects in India which primarily favors the future growth of the construction industry and construction equipment market. While the economic situation and sales figures for construction equipment are declining in 2012, the research organization Off-Highway Research forecasts an increase of sales figures of earthmoving equipment of 16% in
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2013, 9% in 2014, 11% in 2015 and 10% in 2016. The recent governmental announcement of further Highway and Port projects underline the positive development which is likely to happen in the coming years. Despite the current challenges, OffHighway Research is positive about the long term prospects of the construction equipment market. It forecasts sales of construction equipment will reach 71,255 units in 2012, which are likely to rise to 114,165 units by the end of 2016.bC India happening in February 2013 could become the right platform to witness an upswing of the construction equipment industry in 2013 as forecast. How is the support you receive from governmental bodies and associations? From our first edition in 2011, we
have been getting good support from associations and governmental bodies. The list of supporting Indian and International associations is long. Our joint-organizer, the Builders Association of India (BAI) strongly supports us by inviting all their members to the show. Even the support from the local governmental authorities with regards to the venue, the MMRDA grounds in Mumbai is strong. Are there any concurrent activities during bC India 2013? The trade show is not just a platform for global companies to showcase their innovations to the industry. We also offer our trade visitors and audience to participate in first class conferences and buyer forums that are held concurrently to the trade fair. There are
conferences organized by the Builders Association of India (BAI), ASAPP media and the Indian Construction Equipment Manufacturers' Association (iCEMA). iCEMA's Conference for example will deal with the topic Infrastructure Development - Deliverables and Imperatives. More details on the conference programme can be found on www.bCindia.com Why have you chosen Mumbai as the destination to host the event? Mumbai is the leading international trade hub in India that offers several advantages to bC India's exhibitors and visitors. Considered the centre of the construction industry, this city is the ideal spot for solidifying customer and prospect relationships. In addition, Mumbai's central location provides an easy access for domestic and international visitors. Last year we got the general feedback of visitors that Mumbai is the right place for such an event as everybody has something to do in Mumbai. That means that a lot of decision makers travel themselves to see the exhibition as they can combine their visit with other appointments in the financial capital of India Mumbai. I would like to share with you that according to our survey 82% of bC India 2011 visitors were decision makers or have a jointly decisive role in the company a result which speaks for the quality of bC India visitors.
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MB Corporate
E.Scape
Japanese Exoskeleton Protects in Nuclear Disasters

he Fukushima nuclear disaster in March 2011 was a wake-up call across the globe to the potential danger of nuclear energy but could technology help us to respond to such emergencies? The Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) exoskeleton has been developed by the University of Tsukuba spinoff company Cyberdyne. Once disaster strikes, safety of on-call teams is paramount and that is where this new suit comes in. According to Cyberdyne, the exoskeleton can reduce radiation exposure by 50 percent, and includes a
The exoskeleton was developed under NEDO's unmanned systems research and development project disaster in conjunction with the Chiba Institute of Technology.
cooling system to prevent heatstroke. Heart rates and vital signs are monitored in real-time, and most of the suit's weight is carried by the skeleton's mechanical legs as well as tools that can be used to repair damage.
Malaysian Researchers Create New Durable Wood-Plastic Composite Material

esearchers from the Universiti Teknologi MARA in Malaysia have created a new durable wood-plastic composite (WPC). Recent discoveries in the production of new materials have enabled researchers to develop new types of composite materials that perform better and are more durable. Woodplastic composites (WPCs) are one of the fastest growing construction components in the wood composites industry. Their popularity is due to low maintenance, high durability, and resistance to termites and other insect attacks. However their widespread usage has been limited due to their high cost in production and in some instances low strength.
lgae are fascinating little creatures. They're easy to grow (as anyone with an outdoor swimming pool knows), they grow fast, they consume a waste product (CO2) and they make oil. It's no wonder that for nearly half a century, scientists have tried to unlock the energy potential in algae.They're making progress. Sapphire Energy, a company backed by venture capitalists and, among others, Bill Gates, is building the world's largest algae farm that is designed to make oil in the New Mexico desert. But commercialization of algal biofuels remains several years away, at the least, and perhaps much more.
Next Big Thing? A
Is Algal Biofuels the
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Chembond Chemicals Ltd
R & M International
Ultratech Cement Ltd

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NIB: The Super Arbitrator

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Gandhi Automations Pvt.Ltd

Geosynthetics: Industry Analysis

Organically Modified Bentonite as a Part of Geosynthetic Clay Liner System

Urban Housing City's Sustainability Paradigm: 'Housing for All'

136 146 154 159 166 174

Marcus Jablonka, Cosella-Drken, Heinz Peter Raidt, Drken GmbH

Roofing: Moisture Control Catching the Polyurethane Train

Geosynthetics Geosynthetic Opportunities Associated with Energy Production and Transmission

Durability and Long-Term Performance of High Density Polyethylene Geomembranes

Geogrid Reinforced Basal Foundation for Soft Soil Stabilisation

Green Cement The 'Carbon Negative' Cement Technology

Enviro Geosynthetics Pvt.Ltd

180 186 198 230 236 237 60 80

162 Green Buildings - Thermal Insulation

European Asphalt Pavement Association

Sustainability: Warm Mix Asphalt The Use of Warm Mix Asphalt

Waterproofing Waterproofing the Building Envelope

Sonjoy Deb, B.Tech,'Civil' Associate Editor

Advances in Waterproofing Materials & Technology

Sunil Mahajan, Director, Construction Industry Development Council

Workforce: Training On the Job Training: Increasing Acceptability by Industry

Infrastructure Need People with Commitment

Communication Feature Tyre Protector: Revolutionary Tyre Sealants Now in India!

K-FIX: From Chembond Chemicals Ltd.

H & K Rolling Mill Engineers Pvt.Ltd

The Masterbuilder - October 2012 www.masterbuilder.co.in

Advertisers Index / Classification

The Masterbuilder - October 2012 www.masterbuilder.co.in

News & Events

Sany to invest $70 million to expand operations in India

Deere-Hitachi Construction Machinery to invest $ 97 million at its Kernersville facility

Billionaire Investor Carl Lcahn Eyes on Oshkosh

The Masterbuilder - October 2012 www.masterbuilder.co.in

Doka India Pvt. Ltd

News & Events

JLG industries introduces SkyGuard Sensor

C& S Crane & Rigging Inc. Sold to Barnhart

The Masterbuilder - October 2012 www.masterbuilder.co.in

Tashi India Ltd

News & Events

4000 MW Thermal Power Plant to be set up at Banka District in Bihar

600 MW Thermal Plant in Tamil Nadu goes operational

The Masterbuilder - October 2012 www.masterbuilder.co.in

Volvo India Ltd

News & Events

Power Raichur Solapur Transmission System at ` 1,930 crore

Kalpataru Power bags orders worth ` 604 crore

500 MW Gas-fired Combined Cycle Power Plant in Rangoon's Thakayta Township

Additional Power Plants to Meet Shortfall in Jharkhand

The Masterbuilder - October 2012 www.masterbuilder.co.in

News & Events

Central Railway to develop Nashik Road Railway Station

BMRC to Deciate from Original Plan to Protect Ambedkar Statue

High Speed all Weather Train on Trial Run in China

The Masterbuilder - October 2012 www.masterbuilder.co.in