Construction Materials, Equipment and Techniques

Construction is a broad term that refers to the activities related to the building of large or small structures, objects and systems such as school buildings, bridges, dams and tunnels. It comprises functions such as designing, planning and layout, construction financing, and implementing the design. Construction materials refer to all the materials that are utilized in the construction of a structure. Many naturally occurring materials, including clay, rocks, sand, wood, and even twigs and leaves have been used to build structures. Several manufactured items, such as cement, bricks, glass, metal and plastics are also used in addition to the naturally existing materials. Bulldozers, cranes, excavators, dump trucks, and loaders are some of the most common types of construction equipment. There are various types of construction techniques including light gauge steel construction, hybrid concrete construction, 3D volumetric construction, flat slabs, thin-joint masonry, and joisted or load bearing masonry construction. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the materials, equipment and techniques related to construction. It will prove to be immensely beneficial to students and researchers in this field.