BubbleDeck is a revolutionary method of virtually eliminating concrete from the middle of a floor slab not performing any structural function, thereby dramatically reducing structural dead weight. BubbleDeck is based on a new patented technique – the direct way of linking air and steel. Void formers in the middle of a flat slab eliminates 35% of a slabs self-weight removing constraints of high dead loads and short spans.
Incorporation of recycled plastic bubbles as void formers permits 50% longer spans between columns. Combination of this with a flat slab construction approach spanning in two directions – the slab is connected directly to insitu concrete columns without any beams – produces a wide range of cost and construction benefits.
ADVANTAGES –
v Design Freedom – flexible layout easily adapts to irregular & curved plan layouts.v Reduced Dead Weight – 35% removed allowing smaller foundation sizes.v Longer spans between columns – up to 50% further than traditional structures.v Downstand Beams eliminated – quicker & cheaper erection of walls and services.v Load bearing walls eliminated – facilitating MMC with lightweight building envelopes.v Reduced concrete usage – 1 kg recycled plastic replaces 100 kg of concrete.v Environmentally Green and Sustainable – reduced energy & carbon emissions
GREEN CREDENTIALS –
By virtually eliminating concrete in the middle of a slab BubbleDeck makes a significant contribution to reducing environmental impact. Guidance from the ODPM requires the direct environmental effects of buildingsto be considered, including usage of natural resources and emissions resulting from construction. Not only is concrete usage reduced by up to 50% within a buildings structure but knock-on benefits can be realized through reduced foundation sizes.
Every 5,000 m2 of BubbleDeck floor slab can save:-v 1,000 m3 site concrete.v 166 ready mix lorry trips.v 1,798 Tonnes of foundation loads – or 19 less piles.v 1,745 GJ energy used in concrete production & haulage.278 Tonnes of CO2 – green house gases – emissions
Atleast that is what the theoretical part is. We now need to see how this concept works when implemented