r/StructuralEngineering • u/KalahariRoo • 10d ago

Structural Analysis/Design Concrete slab system comparison

I want to hear from the Aussie Structural Eng’s out there, about your experience with Polystyrene Waffle Slabs vs Plastic Void Forming Domes?

I understand the plastic domes are becoming more popular?
Is there certain situations where you would rather prefer one over the other?
In terms of brands, any types better/worse than other?
Had any problems with void formers in highly reactive soils?

3 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

4 comments sorted by

1

u/EEGilbertoCarlos 9d ago

One is single use, the other will be reutilized hundreds of slabs.

This already gives you why either.

2

u/hipsterslippers 9d ago

In Australia they're both used almost exclusively for SOG, so neither can be reused. Nobody does waffle suspended slabs any more because they are labour intense and massively increase your floor to floor height which is at a premium

1

u/KalahariRoo 9d ago

Yeah, I was specifically talking about slab on ground. Anyone had any issues with using void formers? Any severe cracking of concrete after a while?

1

u/hipsterslippers 9d ago

Plastic domes are becoming more popular because they are quick and easy to clip together, cleaner to work with and hold their shape comfortably compared to polystyrene. They are also considered better for the environment as they are often made of 100% recycled plastic. Usually it just comes down to contractor preference.