Performance-based specifications for concrete

Abstract

Demands on concrete structures are more severe than ever. Engineers, contractors, and material suppliers are being asked to design and construct buildings that are taller, larger, and last longer than in the past. Traditional prescriptive specifications for concrete are no longer effective and the concrete construction industry is moving towards performance-based specifications. This paper will explore how performancebased specifications are being used to implement innovative products such as highperformance concrete, self-consolidating concrete and high-strength concrete.