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Waste as a whole is more than ever a global problem. Consumer society has encouraged the use of raw materials to manufacture various objects, which are then either thrown into the sea (the 7th continent of plastic in the Pacific) or buried (in disused quarries or landfills) without any thought of reusing them. This waste can be inert, non-hazardous, or hazardous, even highly hazardous, and is always bulky. The eternal question is: how do we want to leave the planet to our children? It is a question to which we ALL must provide a quick and valid answer. For several years now, there has been talk of landfill, then treatment (at waste production sites or specific locations); this raises the issue of waste transport, hence the problem of illegal dumping.
Tower cranes can be used in a wide variety of sectors, from construction sites to harbors, and can therefore be found on both building sites and shipyards. In construction, they are used to move and lift materials (cement, sand, concrete, steel, etc.) and prefabricated elements of considerable volume and weight. They are equipped with a metal boom and various fittings such as a hook, a block, cables and so on. The concept dates back to the end of the Second World War. This article deals with two types of crane: tower cranes with component or assembly mounting, known as GMEs, and automated mounting cranes with hydraulic or mechanical (winches and cables) deployment, known as GMAs.
In this article, we explore the evolution of formwork in the construction industry, highlighting technological advances that have transformed its design and use. From traditional wooden formwork to metal and synthetic models, each innovation aims to enhance cost-effectiveness, safety, and the quality of concrete structures. We examine modern solutions such as climbing and sliding formwork, as well as process optimizations to ensure watertight, stable, and reusable formwork. Finally, we address the environmental impact and best practices to reduce material waste.
The article discusses various drilling methods used in civil engineering, notably rotation and rotary-percussion, tailored to the nature of the terrain and drilling objectives. It details the components of the drilling string, such as standard rods and heavy rods, as well as drilling tools like tricone bits and roller bits, classified according to the IADC code. The article also covers the ODEX method for simultaneous drilling and casing in unstable terrains, as well as air reverse circulation for efficient sampling. Drilling parameters, the importance of drilling muds, and rotary coring techniques are also discussed, highlighting the evolution of coring methods and tools to optimize performance and reduce costs.
The article explores the different techniques and developments of retaining walls used to stabilize terrain. Historically based on mass to ensure stability, retaining walls have evolved significantly with the invention of reinforced concrete and Reinforced Earth® systems. It outlines various types of walls, such as gravity walls, reinforced concrete walls, and gabion walls, each with advantages and constraints depending on terrain and geotechnical conditions. Preliminary soil studies are essential to ensure the stability of these structures. Drainage and foundation quality also play a crucial role in the durability and safety of the walls. The article emphasizes the importance of geological surveys and rigorous checks to prevent instability.
This article discusses earth pressure at rest and the active and passive states in soil-structure interactions for retaining walls. It explains the relationship between horizontal and vertical stresses through the coefficient of earth pressure at rest and how soil displacement affects the mobilization of active and passive pressures. Calculation methods such as Coulomb, Rankine, and Boussinesq are addressed, considering soil-wall friction and complex mechanical interactions. The article also highlights the use of Mohr's circles to visualize soil stress states and the application of Kérisel and Absi's tables to accurately determine active and passive earth pressure coefficients.
French legislation strengthened the control of building regulations with an ordinance dated July 29, 2022, which came into force on January 1, 2024. This reform accentuated the role of technical inspectors upstream of the construction operation. As a result, the scope of their activities has been broadened. While the status of technical inspectors has not changed, the scope of their work has been extended.The purpose of this article is to take stock of all these issues.
On building and civil engineering sites in particular, we come across a piece of equipment that has proved its worth on a daily basis: mobile elevating work platforms. This equipment has won over companies because it reduces handling effort and therefore saves time on the job. Manufacturers and users confirm this daily. This equipment has many advantages: The launch of new products that are highly sought-after by renters and buyers alike; shorter and shorter lead times ; shorter user training by improving the technique, and taking into account the risks mentioned in the PIA. Various types of MEWPs have appeared on the market (figures 1 and 2): SPIDER; in scissors ; on light commercial vehicles ; on load-bearing chassis ; truck-mounted.
Motorized work platforms moving along masts present risks of crushing, falling persons and falling objects. Vertical, they have the same features as suspended platforms, with a significant additional advantage: they can be used to transport heavy loads, as the elevation marks attached to the top anchor construction are no longer necessary, making them easier to install. Transport platforms are considered to be material lifts, and entail risks of falling objects; they must therefore be equipped with specific devices. Construction site elevators should be included in the category of lifting equipment, as they are used to raise personnel and materials to the level of scaffolding or buildings.
This article addresses the fundamental differences and characteristics of rocks and soils in civil engineering geology. It highlights the complexity of rocks, which, despite their solid appearance, may have internal faults and fissures. Soils are described as dynamic entities composed of various elements, influencing key properties such as porosity and permeability. The article emphasizes the importance of technological advancements in understanding soil properties for the design and construction of secure structures. The distinction between in-situ and imported soils is crucial for foundation selection, with special attention given to the challenges of recent terrains.
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