Over the last twenty years we have witnessed a revolution in ground stabilization in both underground and above-ground applications, thanks largely to the widespread adoption of shotcrete as a medium for support. Shotcrete technology continues to evolve and improve as its utilization increases. From relatively obscure and sporadic beginnings, it has now become central to ground stabilization in mines and tunnels throughout advanced nations in the world, and is increasingly being used in developing nations.
The reasons for this success are clear. Shotcrete offers unrivaled scope for adaptation to varying ground conditions when used for stabilization, and allows flexibility with respect to geometry when used in other applications. The absence of form work and the fact that it conforms to irregular substrates helps to reduce costs, and it can be installed very rapidly. In many situations shotcrete will prove the most economical means of stabilization or construction, and it is more durable than most alternatives. The combination of these factors has made shotcrete the material of first choice in most underground support applications and in an increasing number of above-ground applications. As utilization spreads, new and innovative approaches to construction with this material continue to arise. The engineering basis for analysis and design of shotcrete linings and structures has also improved.
This volume includes a selection of papers describing recent developments in the evolving field of shotcrete technology, written by a wide range of authors from around the world. The subjects range from mining-related ground control requirements, testing and performance characterization, and durability, to nozzleman education and accreditation requirements. The result is a reference providing a useful compendium of recent developments which should appeal to shotcrete technologists and practitioners alike.