Guide to Design of Slabs-on-Ground

Description

This guide presents information on the design of slabs-on-ground. Design is the decision-making process of planning,sizing, detailing, and developing specifications precedingconstruction of slabs-on-ground. Information on otheraspects, such as materials, construction methods, placementof concrete, and finishing techniques is included only whereneeded in making design decisions.In the context of this guide, slab-on-groundis defined as:a slab, supported by ground, whose main purpose is tosupport the applied loads by bearing on the ground.

The slab is of uniform or variable thickness and it may include stiffening elements such as ribs or beams. The slab may be un reinforcedor reinforced with nonprestressed reinforcement, fibers, or post-tensioned tendons. The reinforcement may be provided to limit crack widths resulting from shrinkage and temperaturerestraint and the applied loads. Post-tensioning tendons maybe provided to minimize cracking due to shrinkage and temperature restraint, resist the applied loads, and accommodatemovements due to expansive soil volume changes.

This guide covers the design of slabs-on-ground for loadsfrom material stored directly on the slab, storage rack loads,and static and dynamic loads associated with equipment andvehicles. Other loads, such as roof loads transferred throughdual-purpose rack systems, are also mentioned.

This guide discusses soil-support systems, shrinkage and temperature effects; cracking, curling or warping; and other concerns affecting slab design. Although the same general principles are applicable, this guide does not specifically address the design of roadway pavements, airport pavements, parking lots, or mat foundations