Modelling of factors impacting adoption of precast concrete systems

Construction technology utilizing prefabricated concrete elements is known as a \u91precast concrete system\u92. In Western countries, this system has been widely used in constructing bridges, office buildings and residential buildings. A precast concrete construction system provides the advantages of construction effectiveness, high levels of quality control, saving of construction time, minimisation of skilled labour, reduced manpower requirements on site, and saving in formwork requirements when compared with the traditional construction method (cast-in-place concrete). In Thailand, cast-in-place is the traditional construction system that has been mostly used to this point. Precast concrete floor slabs are the only a prefabricated elements used widely in Thailand. Only a few parties in the Thai construction market have adopted fully precast concrete systems. However, many factors have an impact on the adoption of precast concrete system. This paper presents and analyses a conceptual model that accommodates the numerous factors impacting the effectiveness of the adoption process. The results of a survey of 160 construction industry professionals in Thailand are presented and the significant factors which impact the adoption of precast concrete systems are determined through statistical analysis. The paper concludes with an analysis of the significant factors in the adoption of precast concrete elements and system