PCC stands for Plain Cement Concrete, while RCC stands for Reinforced Cement Concrete. The core difference lies in the presence of steel reinforcement.
Here's a breakdown of the differences between PCC and RCC:
PCC - Plain Cement Concrete
PCC, or Plain Cement Concrete, is a mixture of:
- Cement
- Aggregates (sand and gravel)
- Water
It is a basic building material with adequate compressive strength, but very low tensile strength. This means it's strong when squeezed, but weak when pulled or bent.
RCC - Reinforced Cement Concrete
RCC, or Reinforced Cement Concrete, is PCC with the addition of steel bars or mesh. The steel reinforcement provides tensile strength that PCC lacks. This is the key distinction highlighted in the reference: steel bars are provided in reinforced cement concrete
RCC is composed of:
- Cement
- Aggregates (sand and gravel)
- Water
- Steel Reinforcement (bars or mesh)
Key Differences Summarized
| Feature | PCC (Plain Cement Concrete) | RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) |
|---|---|---|
| Steel Reinforcement | Absent | Present |
| Tensile Strength | Very Low | High |
| Load Carrying Capacity | Lower | Higher |
| Performance | Less durable, prone to cracking under tension | More durable, better able to withstand loads and bending |
Why is RCC Better?
As the reference states: RCC has better load carrying capacities, performs better in serviceability limit states when compared to plain cement concrete structures.
- The steel reinforcement in RCC resists tensile forces, preventing cracking and failure of the concrete.
- This enables RCC structures to bear significantly higher loads and allows for the construction of a wide array of structural elements.
- RCC is superior for components like columns, beams, slabs, and foundations, where both compressive and tensile forces are present.
