Agilia, a self-compacting, self-levelling concrete, was recommended by Nuvoco Vistas Corp. Ltd (formerly Lafarge India Limited) for constructing a state of the art oncology radiation chamber in Kiran Multi Speciality Hospital in Surat; making it the first of its kind in Gujarat. This was made possible by Nuvoco’s Construction Development and Innovation Centre (CDIC), which provided complete customised solutions that also met the stringent regulatory requirements.

The scope of work involved construction of three bunkers of 256 sq m (2754 sq ft); as per the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) regulations. These require the density of concrete to be uniform throughout the structure; with minimum density being more than 2400 kg/m3. It bears pointing out that AERB has non-negotiable and stringent guidelines; and does not permit commissioning of a facility unless those specifications are met.

Agilia is an ideal solution for structures with complex configurations or requirements. In this case, Agilia was used to achieve the desired density and to minimise voids within the concrete by more than 50 per cent as compared to normal concrete. One of the challenges faced during execution was that the structure was approximately five metres below ground level. The laying and changing of the pipeline was critical to maintain a cohesive mix and to avoid pump choking. This was done by maintaining the maximum core temperature below 70°C and a temperature gradient less than 20°C by using higher pozzolane materials in concrete.

The Nuvoco team provided method statement for placement of concrete; evaluation report of performance of different mix-designs to fulfil the requirements of the job-site; and designing of proper shuttering for better performance of Agilia. With proper planning and execution; the team was able to complete the project and hand it over to the hospital team an entire month before schedule; thereby saving considerable costs. Nuvoco supplied 800 cubic metres of M30 Agilia with temperature control for this project.

Talking about the project, Frederic Guimbal, Chief of RMX and Aggregates, said, “We are proud to be a part of this unique project in Gujarat. We were sure Agilia would be the answer since it offers better packing density and cohesiveness over regular concrete. Due to its self-consolidating nature, Agilia drastically reduces voids; thereby minimising the risk of radiation leakage. The team’s meticulous planning ensured an uninterrupted supply of consistent quality concrete.”

 Ravjibhai P. Monapara, Member of Samast Patidar Arogya Trust, Surat (which manages the hospital), stated, “The efforts taken by the Nuvoco team right from the inception till the completion of the job are worth appreciating. The way they handled the project demonstrated true professionalism, minute planning, eye for detail and skilled workmanship.

Hiren G. Desai, Consulting Structural Engineer for the project, further elaborated, “The Nuvoco team was completely involved in the project from the beginning to the end. It was a civil engineering challenge; where the main issue lay in the concrete pour. They had to ensure consistent levelling that would match the stringent specifications; like density; as recommended by the designers and regulatory body. The Nuvoco team did a remarkable job!”