Concrete mix development and durability of precast concrete products: VÚSH meets db Betonové jímky

How can the workability of concrete mixes used in precast production be improved, the chemical resistance of finished products increased, and production waste managed more effectively?

These were among the key topics discussed during a meeting between VÚSH and db Betonové jímky in Bystřice nad Pernštejnem.

During the visit, Ing. Zdeněk Krejza, Ph.D., Director of the Building Materials Research Institute (VÚSH, a.s.), met with the company’s Sales Director, Ing. Lukáš Dvořáček, and Production Manager, Marek Výmola. The discussion focused primarily on specific technical challenges associated with precast concrete production and on areas where the company’s practical manufacturing experience could be complemented by VÚSH’s research, development and testing capabilities.

From concrete mix design to the performance of the finished product

One of the main topics was the optimisation of concrete mix designs. In precast production, the performance of the concrete during manufacturing is just as important as the properties required of the finished product. Workability therefore plays an important role alongside mechanical performance and long-term durability under specific exposure conditions.

The discussion explored potential modifications to concrete mix compositions aimed at improving workability during production while also enhancing the chemical resistance of the finished precast products. Other areas considered included the management and potential utilisation of waste generated during precast concrete production, as well as the use of mathematical modelling to address selected technical challenges.

The visit also included a tour of the db Betonové jímky production facilities. The company specialises in concrete tanks and other precast solutions for water-management applications. Seeing the production technologies and individual manufacturing stages first-hand provided valuable context for the technical issues discussed during the meeting.

The August meeting will be followed by a working session at VÚSH in September. Its purpose will be to examine the individual topics in greater technical detail and identify areas in which specific research, development or testing activities could be pursued jointly.

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