Shotcrete is well suited to the application of irregular free-form hydraulic structures.

Examples of hydraulic structures-include

• Channels/Reservoirs & Spillways
• Embankment Stabilization
• Swimming Pools
• Drainage Culverts and Lined Drains
• Plugs

Hydraulic structures are most commonly in direct contact with the ground. Ground surfaces are often irregular and require expensive formwork if normal concrete is to be cast against an irregular surface. Since shotcrete can be applied directly against vertical, overhead, and irregular surfaces without the need for form work, the cost saving associated wit use of shotcrete in preference to cast concrete is considerable.

Since shotcrete can be applied in successive layers, it is also useful for progressive build-up of thick concrete members such as plugs in tunnels and mines without the need for form work. The final surface of the hydraulic structure can be screeded and floated to a smooth texture if desired. In many applications, the standard of surface finish possible with shotcrete can exceed that of cast concrete due to the absence of bug holes and form work lines.

In swimming pools and tanks, the surface may be left deliberately rough to aid bold to a final surface layer of tiles or other surface linings. This is a distinct advantage of shotcrete that is difficult to achieve using casting. For this and other reasons, shotcrete is widely recognised as the most suitable and adaptable method of producing swimming pools.

LINK: Concrete Institute of Australia - Shotcreting in Australia