Difference Between Plain Cement Concrete (PCC) and Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC)

Concrete is a widely used construction material due to its durability and versatility. It is available in two primary types: Plain Cement Concrete (PCC) and Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC). While both types share a common base of cement, water, and aggregate, they differ significantly in their composition and applications. This article will provide a comprehensive understanding of PCC vs. RCC, highlighting their differences and applications.

Concrete Types: PCC and RCC

Concrete can be broadly categorized into two types: Plain Cement Concrete (PCC) and Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC). Understanding the distinctions between these two types is crucial for structural engineers and constructors to make informed decisions about the materials to be used in different construction projects.

Plain Cement Concrete (PCC)

Definition: Plain Cement Concrete, also known as PCC, is a mixture of sand, cement, gravel, and water without any reinforcement. This type of concrete is not capable of carrying tensile loads.

Key Components: PCC consists of cement, sand, gravel, and water. It is characterized by a low tensile strength, approximately one-tenth of its compressive strength, making it unsuitable for loads that require tensile capacity.

Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC)

Definition: Reinforced Cement Concrete, or RCC, is PCC with the addition of steel reinforcement. This type of concrete is designed to handle both compression and tension loads, making it more versatile and capable of withstanding greater loads.

Key Components: RCC incorporates concrete and steel reinforcing bars, known as rebars, which help to increase the tensile strength of the material. These rebars are strategically placed within the concrete to provide tensile support.

Tensile Strength: RCC has a much higher tensile strength compared to PCC, which makes it suitable for structures that need to withstand tension, such as beams and columns.

Grading and Applications

Grading: Both PCC and RCC are graded based on their characteristic compressive strength at 28 days.

PCC Grading: PCC is commonly graded as M10, M20, or M25, where the number represents the characteristic compressive strength at 28 days. For example, M10 PCC has a compressive strength of 10 MPa.

RCC Grading: RCC is graded similarly, but with a focus on higher compressive strength and tensile capacity. RCC is typically graded as M20, M30, M40, or higher, with the number indicating the compressive strength. The rebar grades (Fe415, Fe500, etc.) refer to the ultimate yield strength of the reinforcing steel.

Usage and Applications

PCC Usage: Plain Cement Concrete is often used in applications where tension loads are not a concern. Some common uses include:

Foundations and footings Slab bedding for columns and beams Slabs and floors

RCC Usage: Reinforced Cement Concrete is mainly used in structural applications that require higher tensile strength and compression resistance, such as:

Columns and beams Foundations and plinth beams Slabs and retaining walls Shear walls

Key Differences

Tensile Strength: PCC has a very low tensile strength, while RCC has a much higher tensile strength due to the presence of steel reinforcement. Compression Resistance: Both PCC and RCC have good compressive strength, but RCC can handle higher compressive loads due to the enhanced tensile capacity provided by the steel. Applications: PCC is used in less critical structures, while RCC is used in critical structural components that require both compressive and tensile strength.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between PCC and RCC depends on the specific requirements of the construction project. Understanding the differences in their properties and applications is crucial for selecting the right type of concrete for a particular construction need.