The Use of Post-Tensioned Slab on Grade Technology in Trinidad

Expansive clays. Known to Trinidadians as "Sappotee" clays are notorious for causing much distress to private domestic and commercial structures built in the south and central regions of the island. To counteract this phenomenon geotechnical engineers would typically recommend expensive, deep foundations even if the building is classified as a light-weight structure. The construction sector was booming and the government housing sector was in overdrive with its "Affordable Homes For All" programme. The construction of these simple, light-weight structures on expansive clays was plagued with delays due to building during the rainy season and this quickly became a nightmare to local contractors. However, the dismal setting did have a silver lining. An engineer lead contracting firm decided to master the PTi based technology, become a certified installer and burst onto the scene with an attractive value engineering solution. Contractors became very receptive to the alternate approach and many of them were able to recover the losses incurred time-wise, rescue their projects and save a substantial amount money in the process.

A Trinidad born structural engineer with over 10 years experience in the industry, received his post graduate training at the University of the West Indies and opted to do his Masters Thesis on the rapid growth and application of the post-tension slab on grade technology, which was very popular on the island during the period between 2004 and 2008