ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the concept of superstructure in building construction. Concrete is a material which is strong in compression and weak in tension, and if the member is overloaded its tensile resistance may be exceeded leading to structural failure. Profiled galvanised steel decking is a permanent formwork system for construction of composite floor slabs. The steel sheet has surface indentations and deformities to effect a bond with the concrete topping. Beams are horizontal load bearing members which are classified as either main beams which transmit floor and secondary beam loads to the columns or secondary beams which transmit floor loads to the main beams. Mild steel or high yield steel. Both contain about 99" iron, the remaining constituents are manganese, carbon, sulphur and phosphorus. When comparing prestressed concrete with conventional reinforced concrete the main advantages and disadvantages can be enumerated but in the final analysis each structure and/or component must be decided on its own merit.
