1. Technical Issues
- Lack of quality raw materials: High-quality coarse aggregates with low porosity and high strength are not always available.
- Limited mix design and testing facilities: Most laboratories in Bangladesh are not yet equipped with advanced mix design software, shrinkage tests, or durability testing for HSC.
- Skill gap: Many engineers, technicians, and workers are not adequately trained in mixing, curing, and placing high strength concrete.
2. Economic Issues
- High cost: HSC requires high-grade cement, admixtures, and special aggregates, which increase production costs.
- Low market demand: Developers often believe that 3,000–4,000 psi concrete is sufficient for building safety, so they avoid spending extra on HSC.
- Lack of economies of scale: Since HSC is not widely produced, the cost remains high.
3. Lack of Awareness
- Conservative design practices: Structural engineers and consultants rarely specify concrete above 6,000 psi.
- Knowledge gap among developers and contractors: Many are unaware that HSC increases building lifespan, allows slender sections, improves space efficiency, and enhances durability.
- Limited code provisions: The Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC) does not provide detailed guidelines for HSC compared to international codes such as ACI or Eurocode.
4. Supply and Logistics Issues
- Inconsistent quality control in ready-mix plants: Ensuring consistent HSC production is difficult.
- Supply chain risks: Admixtures, silica fume, fly ash, and GGBS are import-dependent, leading to delays and price fluctuations.
5. Cultural and Psychological Barriers
- Reluctance toward new technology: Many contractors and clients are hesitant to take risks with new materials.
- Misconceptions about brittleness: Some believe that HSC is more “brittle” or “crack-prone,” making them reluctant to use it.
Summary:
The major challenges to establishing a market for high strength concrete in Bangladesh are high cost, lack of quality raw materials, limited awareness, and inadequate code/policy support. However, its use is gradually increasing in high-rise buildings, metro rail, bridges, and other infrastructure projects, which will help expand the market in the future.
