Concrete

Precast construction minimises material waste

Published

1 year ago

May 13, 2025

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Ramesh Joshi, Business Head – RMC, Shree Cement, discusses how with innovation and quality control at their core, materials such as RMC, precast shapes and M-Sand are driving better project outcomes across the sector.

The construction industry is undergoing a major shift toward greater efficiency, sustainability and quality. Ready-Mix Concrete (RMC), precast shapes and M-Sand are at the forefront of this transformation, offering faster, cleaner and more reliable building solutions. Ramesh Joshi, Business Head – RMC, Shree Cement, sheds light on how these materials are redefining modern construction practices. From improving site safety to enhancing structural durability, they are shaping a more resilient future.

How does Ready-Mix Concrete (RMC) improve construction efficiency compared to traditional site-mixed concrete?
RMC has transformed the construction landscape by enhancing efficiency, quality and overall project performance. Unlike traditional site-mixed concrete, RMC is produced under controlled conditions, ensuring consistent strength and quality in every batch. This consistency leads to faster project completion and improved cost management, as the need for on-site mixing is eliminated.
A key advantage of RMC lies in its ability to reduce labor requirements and minimise material wastage. Its precise mix design enables accurate material estimation, helping contractors avoid over-ordering and surplus inventory, leading to better resource management and lower costs.
RMC also contributes to a safer and more organised work environment by reducing dust, noise and handling risks. Its superior strength and durability ensure longer-lasting structures, lowering maintenance and repair expenses over time. By combining consistency, efficiency and safety, RMC has become an essential element in modern construction, driving better project outcomes and long-term value.

What are the key advantages of using precast shapes in modern construction?
Factory-made precast elements have revolutionised modern construction by offering exceptional durability and weather resistance, ensuring long-term performance. Off-site manufacturing reduces on-site work, leading to faster project completion and lower labour costs. The design flexibility of precast elements allows architects to create innovative forms and finishes, enhancing the visual appeal of structures. Strict factory quality control ensures consistent strength and finish, improving overall construction reliability.
Precast construction minimises material waste, is highly cost-effective and sustainable, and supports eco-friendly building practices. Its ability to combine strength, efficiency and design versatility makes it ideal for modern infrastructure projects. The streamlined production process reduces delays and site disruptions, allowing for quicker turnaround times without compromising quality. Additionally, the reduced reliance on traditional on-site construction methods helps manage labor shortages and improve project timelines. Precast elements are a smart solution for building resilient, aesthetically pleasing and environmentally conscious structures.

How does M-Sand compare to natural river sand in terms of quality and performance?
M-Sand and river sand are both essential in construction, but they differ in quality and performance due to their source and production process. M-Sand is produced using VSI crushers in a controlled environment, ensuring consistent quality, particle size and strength. Its angular shape improves bonding and reduces segregation, enhancing the durability of concrete. In contrast, river sand, sourced naturally, often has inconsistent particle sizes and impurities that can weaken concrete strength. M-Sand offers greater consistency, strength and cost-effectiveness, making it a more reliable choice. Its sustainable production process also makes it environmentally friendly, addressing the issues of riverbed erosion and scarcity linked with river sand. The controlled production of M-Sand ensures minimal impurities and better gradation, reducing the chances of structural inconsistencies. Its uniform quality and enhanced strength make it a preferred option for high-performance construction, providing long-term durability and better structural integrity.

Are there any environmental benefits of using RMC, precast shapes, and M-Sand?
Using RMC, precast shapes and M-Sand provides substantial environmental benefits. RMC enhances resource efficiency by minimising material waste and reducing carbon emissions through controlled production and precise mixing. This improves energy efficiency and reduces the environmental footprint of construction projects. Precast shapes contribute to sustainability by reducing site waste and energy consumption during installation. Their enhanced durability and material efficiency result in longer-lasting structures, further lowering the environmental impact. M-Sand, produced from crushed rocks, reduces the need for river sand, helping to conserve riverbeds and protect aquatic ecosystems. Its consistent quality and controlled production ensure minimal impurities, enhancing structural strength while preserving natural resources. The use of M-Sand also reduces water consumption during mixing, making it a more sustainable alternative. Collectively, RMC, precast shapes and M-Sand promote eco-friendly construction by improving efficiency, reducing waste and conserving natural resources, reflecting a more responsible and sustainable approach to modern building practices.

What challenges do builders face when transitioning to these materials?
Builders face several challenges when transitioning to RMC, precast and M-Sand materials. For RMC, a fully skilled team is essential to handle mixing and application effectively. Significant investment in R&D is required to develop high-performance concrete products, while environmental regulations can add to operational complexity and costs.
In precast construction, identifying reliable vendors for high-end concrete products is crucial to achieving the required strength and finish within tight timelines. Training a specialised team or building internal expertise is necessary for successful execution. The use of heavy lifting machinery for handling and installing precast elements adds to the logistical demands. Additionally, large working spaces for production and storage are required, increasing infrastructure costs. Transitioning to M-Sand involves setting up quarries to meet large-scale demand while maintaining consistent supply. The quality of VSI crushers directly impacts sand grading, requiring regular maintenance of plants and machinery to ensure consistent production quality and performance.

How does the cost of RMC, precast shapes and M-Sand compare to traditional materials?
The cost of RMC, precast shapes and M-Sand varies compared to traditional materials, but the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial expenses. RMC typically comes at a premium, costing around 10 per cent to 20 per cent more per cubic meter than site-mixed concrete. However, its consistency, faster construction and reduced labor requirements make it a more efficient solution in the long run. Precast shapes, on the other hand, are more cost-efficient, offering savings of around 10 per cent to 20 per cent compared to traditional construction. The faster installation and reduced on-site labor requirements contribute to overall cost savings and quicker project completion. M-Sand stands out for its affordability, being 30 per cent to 50 per cent cheaper than river sand, depending on the location. Its controlled production ensures consistent quality and availability, reducing dependency on natural resources. While initial costs for RMC may be higher, the combined advantages of precast and M-Sand make them financially attractive and operationally efficient.

What innovations are shaping the future of these materials in construction?
Innovations in RMC, precast shapes and M-Sand are transforming construction with enhanced efficiency and performance. In RMC, high-end R&D in batching plants reduces space requirements and improves automation. Transit mixers with advanced sensors ensure smoother transit and better product regulation. Precast construction is benefiting from improved casting machines that require less manual intervention and high-tonnage heavy lifting equipment, making installation more efficient. For M-Sand, advancements in VSI crushers are producing better-graded sand, improving concrete strength and consistency. These innovations are driving greater precision, speed and cost-effectiveness in modern construction.

How do you ensure the consistent quality and reliability of these products?
Ensuring consistent quality and reliability in RMC, precast shapes and M-Sand requires a structured and focused approach. Continuous development and product optimisation play a key role in meeting specific project requirements and enhancing overall performance. By adapting to evolving construction needs, manufacturers can maintain high standards and improve product outcomes. Well-defined SOPs for production and execution ensure operational consistency. Random quality checks during production help identify and address deviations early, maintaining uniformity in product performance. This proactive approach minimises errors and enhances reliability.
Customer feedback through post-production surveys and satisfaction reviews provides valuable insights for continuous improvement. Addressing customer concerns promptly helps in refining processes and improving overall quality.

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Concrete

Cement Makers Reaffirm Commitment to Sustainable Growth

Published

6 days ago

June 5, 2026

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World Environment Day spotlight on innovation and circularity

On World Environment Day, the Indian cement industry reiterated its commitment to supporting India’s climate ambitions through sustainable manufacturing, resource efficiency and the adoption of cleaner technologies.

The Cement Manufacturers’ Association (CMA) said the sector remains aligned with the Government of India’s Net Zero commitments and is accelerating efforts to reduce its environmental footprint while supporting the country’s infrastructure and development agenda.

Parth Jindal, President, CMA and Managing Director, JSW Cement, said the industry is increasingly adopting cleaner technologies, improving energy efficiency and expanding the use of alternative fuels and raw materials. He also highlighted the growing importance of circular economy practices, where industrial by-products and waste streams from one sector are utilised as resources in another.

“The Indian Cement Industry is aligned to the Government’s commitments on carbon mitigation and is accelerating the adoption of cleaner technologies, resource efficiency and circular economy practices while actively exploring the potential of Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) as a critical pathway for deep decarbonisation,” said Jindal.

He added that coprocessing industrial waste and by-products helps conserve natural resources, reduce disposal requirements and lower the environmental footprint across multiple sectors.

According to Jindal, sustainability is no longer limited to manufacturing processes but is increasingly influencing investment decisions, innovation strategies and long-term growth plans within the industry.

Echoing similar views, Dr Raghavpat Singhania, Vice President, CMA and Managing Director, JK Cement, said sustainable development extends beyond emissions reduction and must also focus on responsible resource utilisation and waste minimisation.

“Sustainability in the built environment cannot be measured by emissions alone. It is equally about how efficiently we use resources, how effectively we minimise waste and how responsibly we create the infrastructure that will serve future generations,” said Singhania.

He noted that the cement industry is advancing its sustainability agenda through greater resource efficiency, increased circularity, technological innovation and continuous improvements in manufacturing practices. As a key contributor to India’s infrastructure development, the sector has a critical role to play in balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.

On the occasion of World Environment Day, industry leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting India’s climate goals while delivering the materials required for resilient, durable and sustainable infrastructure.

Concrete

Building a Greener Future Together

Published

6 days ago

June 4, 2026

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Environmental sustainability requires immediate action, not just long-term commitments and discussions. Recycling, circular economy practices, and technology-driven waste management can help industries reduce environmental impact while supporting sustainable growth.

Author: Jignesh Kundaria, Director and CEO, Fornnax Technology

World Environment Day serves as an important reminder that environmental sustainability can no longer remain confined to discussions, reports, or long-term commitments. The environmental challenges facing the world today demand immediate, measurable, and collective action. Across industries and communities, waste generation continues to outpace our ability to process it responsibly, placing increasing pressure on ecosystems, natural resources, public health, and the well-being of future generations.

One of the most significant shifts required today is a change in how society perceives waste. Rather than being viewed as a material to be discarded, waste must be recognised as a valuable resource that can contribute to both economic growth and environmental protection when managed through the right technologies and systems. This mindset forms the foundation of the circular economy model that countries across the world are increasingly adopting to reduce landfill dependence, recover valuable materials, and create more sustainable industrial ecosystems.

India has made meaningful progress in strengthening awareness around sustainability, recycling, and environmental responsibility over the past decade. Significant efforts are being made to formalise the recycling sector through improved infrastructure, technology adoption, policy implementation, and broader stakeholder participation. These developments are creating a stronger foundation for responsible waste management and resource recovery across the country.

However, achieving long-term environmental impact requires collaboration from all stakeholders. Industries, policymakers, technology providers, and communities must work together with greater accountability to strengthen recycling ecosystems, encourage responsible waste management practices, and create sustainable outcomes through consistent execution rather than temporary interventions.

As someone closely associated with the recycling industry, I firmly believe that technology will play a decisive role in addressing future environmental challenges. Advanced recycling systems have the potential to recover valuable resources, reduce pollution, minimise landfill burdens, and conserve energy, creating a more sustainable future for generations to come. This belief is deeply reflected in Fornnax’s motto, “Committed to Create a Green Future,” which embodies our commitment to building long-term environmental value through innovation and responsible action.

At the same time, technology alone cannot deliver meaningful change. Real progress requires intent, awareness, participation, and a shared sense of responsibility. Sustainable development can only be achieved when innovation is supported by collective action and a genuine commitment to environmental stewardship.

On this World Environment Day, let us move beyond conversations and take meaningful steps towards creating a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable planet. By embracing innovation, strengthening recycling ecosystems, and acting responsibly today, we can create lasting environmental impact and secure a better future for generations to come.

Concrete

JK Lakshmi Advances LC3 Cement Expansion

Company highlights commercial production and research partnerships

Published

1 week ago

June 1, 2026

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The meeting reviewed progress in limestone calcined clay cement (LC3) technology and its commercial adoption in India’s cement sector, focusing on low-carbon alternatives to conventional binders. JK Lakshmi Cement noted that limestone calcined clay cement can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 40 per cent compared with conventional cement and said this reduction supports industry decarbonisation. The company highlighted that it was among the first two cement manufacturers in India to move LC3 into commercial production after the Bureau of Indian Standards approved the technology as a cement standard.

Vinita Singhania said the transition of LC3 from research to commercial production reflected collaboration between industry, academia and international institutions. Maya Tissafi acknowledged JK Lakshmi Cement’s role in advancing LC3 adoption in India and its contribution in taking the technology from laboratory trials to commercial implementation. Both representatives underlined the growing relevance of sustainable construction materials as India expands infrastructure and urban development.

The meeting explored continued collaboration with Swiss research institutions such as EPFL, EMPA and ETH Zurich alongside Indian academic partners and development organisations. JK Lakshmi Cement has been associated with the LC3 initiative since 2014 and worked with EPFL, IIT Delhi, IIT Madras, Development Alternatives and Technology and Action for Rural Advancement. The company conducted one of the earliest industrial trials of LC3 and recently announced commercial production of Green Pro LC3 cement from its Jaykaypuram plant in Rajasthan.

India remains the world’s second-largest cement producer and expansion of infrastructure, urbanisation and housing demand continue to support long-term sector growth, increasing interest in low-carbon technologies. The company reported an annual turnover of more than Rupees (Rs) 60 bn and current cement capacity of about 18 million (mn) tonnes (t) per annum, with a target of reaching 30 million (mn) tonnes (t) by 2030. Apart from grey cement, the company also makes ready-mix concrete, gypsum plaster, wall putty, primers, adhesives and fly ash blocks, and both sides concluded on the need for continued collaboration to develop sustainable construction solutions.