BCME QB-01

Q.1 Discuss the role of civil engineering in building constructions

Ans: Civil engineering plays a central role in building construction, ensuring that structures
are functional, durable, and sustainable.
1. Planning and Designing
 Civil engineers prepare blueprints and designs, ensuring buildings are stable, safe,
and strong.
 They address factors like structural load, material selection, and environmental
conditions.
2. Construction Management
 Civil engineers oversee the construction process, ensuring proper execution from
start to finish.
 They manage budgets, timelines, workforce, and equipment.
3. Site Preparation
 Tasks like excavation, leveling, and soil stabilization fall under their supervision to
ensure a robust foundation.
4. Quality Control
 Engineers are responsible for maintaining the quality of materials such as concrete,
steel, bricks, and sand to ensure the structure's durability.
5. Safety Standards
 Civil engineers adhere to building codes and safety guidelines to protect the
structure and its occupants.
 They implement measures to mitigate risks and ensure disaster resilience.
6. Problem Resolution
 Challenges during construction are addressed by civil engineers using innovative
problem-solving techniques.
7. Materials Expertise
 Engineers determine the suitability of construction materials like earth, timber,
bricks, and aggregates based on their properties and requirements.
 They focus on selecting materials that enhance stability, durability, and sustainability.
8. Reporting and Documentation
  Engineers maintain detailed records of daily progress, project milestones, and
construction activities to ensure transparency and accountability.
9. Sustainability and Environmental Impact
 Modern civil engineering emphasizes eco-friendly construction practices, including
waste reduction, energy efficiency, and the use of sustainable materials.

Q.2 Explain and enlist the various branches of civil engineering.

1.Transportation Engineering
2.Environmental Engineering
Ans: 1.Transportation Engineering
 transportation engineering involves the planning designing operation and
maintaining networking system that an individual uses for travelling purpose such as
roadways railways airways and seaways
 it aims to ensure that people and goods move safely efficiently from one place to
another place
 examples of transportation engineering project are airport design traffic
management monitoring system road access management pedestrian bridges etc.

2.Environmental Engineering
 it aims on improving the environment and protect human health
 it ensures proper water management to get clean water to ensure sustainability by
considering environmentally friendly policies
 it involves design of system for water treatment and wastewater treatment
 it ensures the control of air pollution and water pollution.

Q.3 Discuss the role of civil engineering in the field of

1. Surveying
2.Irrigation Engineering
Ans: 1.Surveying
  surveying involves measuring and recording the characteristics of land to help plan
the construction project
 it is process of locating relative points on and below the earth surface for an object
and represent it on map or plan
 there are various types of surveying such as archaeological survey geological survey
mine survey groundwater survey military survey engineering or topographical survey

2.Irrigation Engineering
 it involves the study of how to manage water for the growth of crops and other
vegetation on agricultural and developed lands
 it involves planning and designing low cost irrigation system construction of dams
reservoir canals
 distribution of water to agricultural field managing distribution system and irrigation
system used
 it involves controlling reverse drainage and waterlogged areas and generating
hydroelectric power

Q.4 Write a note on concrete, bricks and stone

Ans: Concrete (Cement + Sand + Aggregate + Water)
 Properties:
Compressive Strength: High (15–100 MPa), depends on mix design.
Durability: Resistant to weathering and chemical attack.
Workability: Can be poured into different shapes before setting.
Water Permeability: Low; improves with proper curing and mix design.
Tensile Strength: Low, but can be reinforced with steel.
 Uses:
Building structures – Foundations, beams, columns, and slabs.
Bridges and roads – Used in highway pavements and bridge decks.
Dams and water structures – Water-resistant concrete for reservoirs and dams.
Precast components – Pipes, tiles, and blocks.

Brick
  Properties:
Compressive Strength: High (3.5–20 MPa), depends on the type of brick.
Porosity: Varies; higher porosity can lead to water absorption.
Fire Resistance: Good, withstands high temperatures.
Durability: Resistant to weathering but can erode over time.
Thermal Insulation: Moderate; better in hollow bricks.
 Uses:
Wall construction – Used in load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls.
Pavements – Clay bricks used in pathways and driveways.
Fireplaces and chimneys – Due to high heat resistance.
Sewage and drainage structures – Engineering bricks are used for their low permeability

Stone
 Properties:
Strength: Very high compressive strength (50–300 MPa).
Durability: Weather-resistant; some stones resist acid rain.
Hardness: High, but varies by type (granite > limestone).
Porosity: Low in dense stones (granite), high in sedimentary stones (sandstone).
Fire Resistance: Generally good, but some stones (limestone) may degrade.
 Uses:
Building construction – Foundations, walls, and decorative facades.
Paving and flooring – Marble and granite used for aesthetics.
Bridges and dams – Used for structural stability.
Monuments and sculptures – Due to durability and aesthetics.

Q.5 Write a note on types of concrete and requirements of good concrete

Ans: Types/Classification of concrete
A. Based on cementing materials
i. Lime concrete
ii. Gypsum concrete
iii. Cement concrete
B.Based on bulk density
i. Extra light weight-<500 kg/m3
ii. Light weight-500-1800kg/m3
iii. Dense weight-1800-2500 kg/m3
iv. Super heavy weight->2500 kg/m3
C. Based on placing of casting
i. In-site concrete
ii. Precast concrete
D. Based on grade of concrete
M10, M15, M20, M25, M30, M40, M45

Requirements of Good Concrete

Concrete should possess the following properties to ensure its effectiveness and durability:
 High Compressive Strength: Able to withstand heavy loads.
 Workability: Easily placed and compacted without segregation.
 Durability: Resistant to weathering, abrasion, and chemical attack.
 Low Shrinkage: Minimal shrinkage to prevent cracks.
 Resistance to Corrosion: Protects from environmental and chemical exposure.
 Good Binding Property: Proper adhesion between materials like cement and
aggregates.
 Fire Resistance: Should withstand high temperatures.
 Water Retention: Capable of holding water without leakage.
These factors ensure that concrete is not only durable but also cost-effective and reliable for
various construction purposes.

Q.6 Write down requirements and types of cement and mortar.

Ans: Uses of cement
- In preparing mortar, for plastering, and painting.
- In making joints of drain pipes.
- In foundation, footpaths.
- In watertanks, tunneling, roads.
- In preparation of pipes, piles, fencing posts.
- In constructing dams, reservoirs.
- In construction of lintels, beams, columns, flooring, roof staircase.

Types of cement
1. Ordinary Portland Cement
2. Rapid hardening cement
3. Low heat cement
4. Quick setting cement
5. Air entrained cement
6. Flyash cement
7. Expansive cement
8. High alumina cement
9. Masonary cement
10. White cement
11. Coloured cement
12. Oil well cement

Uses of Mortar
- To bind building units such as stone, bricks.
- In pointing and painting.
- To form an even and soft bedding surface for building units.
- In joints of pipes.
- To hide open joints of brickwork or stonework.
- To improve general appearance of the structure.
Classification of Mortar
A. Based on bulk density
i. Heavy mortar-prepared from heavy quartz or other sand, bulk density >=15kn/m3.
ii. Light-weight motar- prepared from light porous sand, bulk density <15kn/m3.
B. Based on binding material
i. Lime mortar-lime is used as binding material, shrink little, unsuitable for waterlogged area.
ii. Surkhi mortar-prepared by using surkhi instead of sand.
iii. Cement mortar-cement to sand ratio varies from 1:2 to 1:6 depending upon strength
required.
iv. Gauged mortar-cement is added to get early strength in lime mortar with proprtion of 1:6
to1:8 by volume. Also known as lime cement mortar or composite mortar.
C. Based on uses
i. Fire resistant mortar-prepared by adding aluminous cement to finely crushed powder of
fire bricks in 1:2 proportion, used in ovens.
ii. Light weight mortar-prepared by adding saw dust, wood powder to lime or cement
mortar, is heat and sound proof.
iii. Packing mortar-have high homogeneity, used in joints.
iv. Sound absorbing mortar-mixture of portland cement, lime, gypsum it cancels noise.
v. X-ray shielding mortar- used in plastering of X-ray cabinet.
D. Based on nature of application
i. Brick laying mortar- used in brick works or walls.
ii. Finishing mortar- used in finishing work as plastering for architectural effects.

Q.7 Explain advantages and disadvantages of using concrete in a structure.

Ans: Concrete is one of the most widely utilized construction materials due to its diverse
benefits. However, like all materials, it comes with both advantages and disadvantages when
used in structures.

Advantages of Using Concrete in Structures

- Durability:
Concrete is highly resistant to weathering, chemical attack, and abrasion. It ensures
longevity in structures, even under challenging environmental conditions.
- Malleability and Customization:
It can be moulded into complex shapes and forms, making it suitable for creative
architectural designs and intricate detailing.
- Fire Resistance:
As a non-combustible material, concrete offers excellent fireproofing capabilities, enhancing
the safety of buildings.
- Cost-Effective:
Concrete materials like cement, sand, and aggregates are widely available and relatively
economical, which keeps construction costs down.
- Ease of On-Site Application:
Concrete can be mixed and poured directly on-site, simplifying the construction process and
eliminating the need for extensive prefabrication.
- Low Maintenance Costs:
Once set, concrete requires minimal maintenance, reducing long-term expenses for repairs
or refurbishments.
- Weather Resistance:
Concrete remains unaffected by extreme climates, including heavy rainfall, high
temperatures, or freezing conditions, making it ideal for outdoor structures.
- Energy Efficiency:
Concrete's thermal mass helps regulate indoor temperatures by absorbing and releasing
heat, thereby reducing energy consumption for heating or cooling.

Disadvantages of Using Concrete in Structures

- Low Tensile Strength:
Concrete is weak in tension, necessitating reinforcement with materials like steel to
withstand tensile forces.
- Brittle Nature:
Under dynamic loads or heavy stress, concrete can easily crack due to its lack of flexibility.
- Heavy Weight:
The density of concrete adds significant weight to structures, which may not be ideal for
lightweight applications.
- Environmental Impact:
The production of concrete, especially cement, involves energy-intensive processes and
contributes to CO₂ emissions.
- Efflorescence Formation:
Concrete can experience efflorescence, a phenomenon where salts rise to the surface,
forming unsightly white stains.
- Shrinkage and Cracking:
As concrete dries and cures, it tends to shrink, which can lead to cracking if not properly
managed during the construction phase.
- Limited Aesthetic Appeal:
While functional, concrete lacks the natural beauty of materials like wood or stone unless
additional finishes are applied.

Q.8 What is seasoning of timber? Why is it required (Requirements of good timber)

Ans: Seasoning of timber - Seasoning of timber is process of removing water and sap (plant
juice) from raw trees after its cutting to make it more strong, durable, and
free of cracks.
Following are the methods used for seasoning
-Natural Seasoning-seasoning carried out by natural air, is is cheap and economical, no need
of skilled supervision.
-Artificial Seasoning-it is done by using chemicals or a boiling process, quite expensive
and require skilled supervision.

Seasoning is vital for the following reasons:

 Increased Strength: Properly seasoned timber is stronger and more capable of
bearing loads without deforming.
 Durability: Removing moisture prevents timber from rotting or being attacked by
fungi and insects.
 Dimensional Stability: Seasoned timber does not shrink, swell, or warp, maintaining
its shape and size.
  Improved Workability: Dry timber is easier to cut, drill, and shape during
construction or manufacturing processes.
 Reduced Weight: Drying timber lowers its weight, making it easier to transport and
handle.
 Enhanced Resistance: Seasoning enhances resistance to vibrations, shocks, and wear.
 Better Appearance: Well-seasoned timber is free of cracks and splits, ensuring a
smooth finish.

Q.9 Write a note on aggregate. Requirement and types of aggregates.

Ans: Aggregate is an essential construction material composed of granulated particles such as
gravel, sand, or crushed stones. It forms the bulk of concrete, contributing to its strength, stability,
and durability. Aggregates are widely used in construction for making roads, foundations,
pavements, drainage systems, and landscaping.

Uses of aggregates
- Used in concrete production
- In road and foundation base.
- In landscaping, and pathways.
-In slope stabilization and structural stability.
- facilitating drainage.
- As granular base course for pavements.
- In railway ballast.
Types of aggregates
A. Fine aggregates-passes through 4.75mm IS sieve. Particle size is less than 4.75mm,
example clay, sand silt.
B. Coarse aggregate-retained on 4.75mm IS sieve. Particle size is more than 4.75mm,
example- gravel.
C. Lightweight aggregate-lower density, used in lightweight concrete,
example- expanded clay,shell.
D. Heavyweight aggregate-higher density, used in specialized applications, example- bauxite.
E. Recycled aggregates-It is derived from recycled material like crushed concrete or
asphalt, to reduce demand for natural resource.
Q.10 Define cements and properties of cement.
Definition of Cement
Cement is a fine, gray powder used as a key binding material in construction. It is typically
composed of limestone (calcium carbonate) and clay, which are subjected to high heat to
form a material called clinker. The clinker is then ground into a fine powder and mixed with
gypsum to produce cement. When mixed with water, cement forms a paste that binds other
materials (like sand and aggregates) together, eventually hardening to form a strong and
durable structure.
Cement is primarily used in creating concrete, mortar, and other construction materials for
building foundations, walls, roads, dams, and numerous structural components.
Properties of Cement
For cement to function effectively as a binding material, it must exhibit the following
properties:
Physical Properties
1. Fineness:
o Cement should be finely ground to ensure proper hydration and bonding with
other materials. Fine cement particles enhance strength and workability.
2. Setting Time:
o Cement should have a sufficient initial setting time to allow for placement and
adjustment but should set quickly enough for construction to progress
without delay.
3. Strength:
o It must exhibit high compressive strength to bear heavy loads and maintain
structural integrity over time.
4. Soundness:
o Cement should not shrink or expand excessively upon setting to prevent
cracks in the structure.
5. Consistency:
o It must have uniform properties throughout its composition for reliable
performance.
6. Low Heat of Hydration:
o For mass concrete works (e.g., dams), cement should release minimal heat
during hydration to avoid cracking.
Chemical Properties
 1. Plasticity:
o Cement should mix easily with water to form a paste that can flow into gaps
and set uniformly.
2. Durability:
o It should resist environmental factors like moisture, frost, and chemical
attacks over time.
3. Shrinkage Resistance:
o Good cement minimizes shrinkage during setting and hardening, reducing the
risk of cracks.
4. Hydration Reaction:
o It should react effectively with water to form a hard and durable matrix for
binding aggregates.

Q.11 Define Foundation . Write functions of foundation .

Ans: Definition of Foundation
A foundation is the lowest part of a building or structure that transfers the load from the
structure above to the ground beneath it. It provides stability and ensures that the building
remains upright and safe under various environmental and structural conditions.
Foundations are typically made from materials like concrete, stone, or reinforced concrete.
Functions of Foundation
The foundation of a structure serves several critical purposes, including:
1. Load Distribution:
o It spreads the weight of the structure uniformly over a large area of the
ground, preventing excessive stress on any one point.
2. Stability:
o Foundations provide a stable base for the structure, preventing tilting or
overturning caused by lateral forces like wind or earthquakes.
3. Support for Vertical and Horizontal Loads:
o Foundations bear the vertical weight of the structure and resist horizontal
forces like wind pressure or seismic activity.
4. Settlement Prevention:
o By evenly distributing the load, foundations minimize uneven settlement,
which could otherwise lead to structural cracks or failure.
 5. Safety:
o They anchor the structure to the ground, ensuring it is secure against shifting
or sliding.
6. Moisture Protection:
o Foundations act as a barrier, preventing water or moisture from entering the
structure, which could weaken materials over time.
7. Frost Resistance:
o In cold climates, foundations are designed to resist frost action, preventing
damage caused by soil freezing and thawing.
8. Load Transmission to Stronger Soil Layers:
o Foundations transfer the load of the structure to deeper, more stable soil
layers or bedrock if surface soil is weak or unsuitable.

Q.12 Write a note on spread footing and combined footing.

Ans: Spread Footing
Spread footing, also known as isolated footing, is a type of foundation used to support
individual columns or piers. It consists of a wide base that spreads the load of the structure
over a larger area to avoid excessive stress on the underlying soil. Spread footings are
commonly used for buildings with light to moderate loads and are most effective in soils
with good bearing capacity.
Key Features of Spread Footing:
1. Designed to evenly distribute the load of a single column or pier.
2. Typically rectangular, square, or circular in shape.
3. Used when the columns are spaced far apart.
4. Suitable for structures where the soil at shallow depths can bear the load efficiently.
Applications:
 Residential buildings with light loads.
 Isolated column foundations in warehouses or factories.
Combined Footing
Combined footing is used when two or more columns are close enough that their individual
footings would overlap or when soil conditions are unsuitable for isolated footings. A single
footing is constructed to support the load of these adjacent columns. Combined footings are
often rectangular or trapezoidal in shape, depending on the load distribution.
Key Features of Combined Footing:
1. Supports multiple columns with a single footing structure.
2. Helps distribute the load evenly when one column is near a boundary or property
line.
3. Rectangular combined footings are used for similar loads, whereas trapezoidal
footings are preferred for unequal loads.
Applications:
 Buildings with columns near property boundaries or edges.
 Structures requiring shared load distribution due to space or soil constraints.

Q.13 What are the causes of failure of foundation . Enlist types of deep foundation and
shallow foundation.
Ans: Causes of Foundation Failure
Foundation failure can occur due to various factors that compromise its stability and
functionality. The common causes include:
1. Poor Soil Conditions:
o Weak or unstable soils, such as expansive clay or loose sand, cannot
adequately bear the load of the structure.
2. Excessive Settlement:
o Uneven or excessive settlement of soil beneath the foundation can lead to
cracking or structural instability.
3. Inadequate Design:
o Faulty foundation design, including incorrect load calculations or material
selection, can result in failure.
4. Improper Construction Practices:
o Poor workmanship, such as insufficient compaction, improper curing of
concrete, or inadequate reinforcement, weakens the foundation.
5. Water Table Fluctuations:
o Changes in the water table level, such as flooding, can lead to soil erosion and
weakening of foundation support.
6. External Forces:
o Lateral forces like earthquakes, wind loads, or vibrations can compromise the
foundation’s stability if not designed to resist them.
 7. Overloading:
o Exceeding the bearing capacity of the foundation due to additional loads can
lead to structural failure.
8. Poor Drainage:
o Accumulation of water near the foundation can cause soil erosion or increase
hydrostatic pressure, weakening the structure.
Types of Foundations
Foundations are broadly classified into two categories based on depth:
Shallow Foundations
Shallow foundations are placed close to the surface and transfer the load to the soil at
shallow depths. Common types include:
1. Spread Footing (Isolated Footing): Supports individual columns or piers.
2. Combined Footing: Supports two or more columns with a shared footing.
3. Strip Footing: Used for long and narrow structures like walls.
4. Raft Foundation: A large slab supporting multiple columns and distributing loads
over a wide area.
5. Pad Footing: Square or rectangular footings for lighter loads.
Deep Foundations
Deep foundations transfer the load to deeper soil layers or bedrock when surface soil cannot
support the structure. Common types include:
1. Pile Foundations: Cylindrical columns driven deep into the soil to transfer loads to
stronger layers.
2. Pier Foundations: Large diameter cylindrical supports used for heavy loads.
3. Caisson Foundations: Watertight retaining structures sunk into the ground or water
to support bridge piers or marine structures.
4. Well Foundations: Used for structures like towers and bridges over water.

Q.14 Define deep foundation and shallow foundation. Enlist types of deep foundation and
shallow foundation.
Ans: Definition of Shallow Foundation
Shallow foundations are placed near the ground surface and transfer structural loads to
the soil at relatively shallow depths. They are used when the soil close to the surface has
sufficient bearing capacity to support the structure.
Definition of Deep Foundation
Deep foundations extend deeper into the ground to transfer structural loads to stronger,
more stable soil layers or bedrock. They are used in cases where surface soil is weak or
unsuitable for supporting heavy loads.
Types of Shallow Foundations
1. Spread Footing (Isolated Footing): Designed to support individual columns or piers.
2. Combined Footing: Shared footing for multiple columns situated close to each
other.
3. Strip Footing: Long and narrow footing used to support walls.
4. Raft Foundation: Large slab footing that covers the entire building area and
distributes loads evenly.
5. Pad Footing: Square or rectangular footing used for lighter loads.
Types of Deep Foundations
1. Pile Foundations: Cylindrical columns driven deep into the ground to transfer loads
to stable layers.
2. Pier Foundations: Large cylindrical supports used for heavy structural loads.
3. Caisson Foundations: Watertight retaining structures sunk into the ground or
underwater, often used for bridge piers or marine structures.
4. Well Foundations: Foundations used for towers and bridge piers over water.

Q.15 Explain strap footing and raft foundation with sketch

Ans: Strap Footing
Strap footing is a type of foundation that connects two or more individual footings with a
rigid beam, called a strap beam. It is typically used when one of the columns is near a
property boundary, and constructing a separate footing for that column is not feasible.
The strap beam helps distribute the load from the eccentric column to another column so
that the structure remains stable.
Key Features of Strap Footing:
1. Load Transfer: The strap beam does not take the load directly but ensures that the
load is evenly transferred to adjacent columns.
2. Prevents Overturning: Strap footing prevents uneven settlement or tilting of the
structure due to eccentric loading.
3. Efficient Use of Space: It is often used when site constraints, such as property
boundaries, limit the placement of individual footings.
Applications:
 Structures near property boundaries.
 Buildings with uneven or eccentric column loads.
Raft Foundation
Raft foundation, also known as mat foundation, is a large, continuous slab of concrete that
covers the entire building area and supports all the columns and walls. It is used when soil
conditions are poor, and individual footings would require excessive depth.
Key Features of Raft Foundation:
1. Load Distribution: It spreads the entire structure's load evenly over a large area,
reducing pressure on weak or compressible soil.
2. Minimizes Differential Settlement: Raft foundations are designed to prevent
uneven settlement by distributing loads evenly.
3. Unified Support: Unlike separate footings, the entire slab acts as a single
foundation, making it ideal for weak soils or heavy structures.
Applications:
 High-rise buildings.
 Structures on soft, loose, or weak soils.
 Industrial structures or basements requiring large load distribution.

Q.16 Define parts of structure ( substructure , superstructure) , types of super structure

(Load bearing structure , framed structure)
Ans: Parts of a Structure
Structures consist of two main parts based on their location and functionality:
1. Substructure
The substructure refers to the lower portion of the structure that is below ground level. It
includes the foundation and supporting elements that transfer the load from the building
to the ground.
 Functions:
o Distributes the load of the superstructure to the soil.
o Provides stability to the entire structure.
o Protects the building from moisture and soil-related issues.
2. Superstructure
The superstructure is the portion of the structure above ground level, which is visible and
primarily used by occupants. It includes walls, columns, beams, floors, roofs, and other
architectural elements.
 Functions:
o Provides usable space for activities.
o Transfers the load of its elements to the substructure.
o Enhances the aesthetics and architectural appearance of the building.
Types of Superstructure
1. Load-Bearing Structure
In a load-bearing structure, walls themselves bear the weight of the roof and floors above.
This type of construction is often used for smaller buildings where the load is relatively
moderate.
 Characteristics:
o Walls act as the primary load-carrying elements.
o Foundations are proportionately designed to support the wall loads.
o Suitable for residential and low-rise buildings.
 Advantages:
o Economical for smaller projects.
o Easier to design and construct.
 Disadvantages:
o Limited flexibility for modifications and expansions.
o Walls need to be thick and heavy, leading to less usable space.
2. Framed Structure
In a framed structure, the load is carried by a skeleton framework composed of beams and
columns. The walls serve only as partitions and do not contribute to structural strength.
 Characteristics:
o The framework of beams and columns bears the entire load of the
structure.
o Allows thinner and lighter walls for partitioning.
o Suitable for high-rise buildings and complex structures.
 Advantages:
 o Flexibility in architectural design and layout.
o Easily accommodates modifications or extensions.
o Ideal for taller buildings and heavy loads.
 Disadvantages:
o Requires skilled labour and careful design.
o Higher cost compared to load-bearing structures.