Comparison of advantages of steel structure and concrete structure

As a consensus, compared to the currently widely used concrete, steel structures have several advantages: First, they allow for dry construction, saving water, occupying less land during construction, generating less noise, and producing less dust. Second, because the self-weight is reduced, the amount of soil required for foundation construction is less, causing less damage to the valuable resource of land. Third, the use of concrete and bricks is significantly reduced, decreasing the excavation of mountains around cities, which is beneficial for environmental protection. Fourth, when the building’s service life ends, the amount of solid waste generated by dismantling the structure is small, and the scrap steel has a high recycling value. At present, steel structure buildings are one of the types of structures with minimal impact on the urban environment and are widely used in the West, hence being referred to as green buildings by relevant authorities.

In recent years, steel structures represented by space frame and truss structures have also continued to develop extensively. These structures are characterized by rational force distribution, high rigidity, light weight, uniform components, and convenient manufacturing and installation, meeting the requirements of large spans, high spaces, and diverse architectural forms. They are used not only in general civil buildings but also in industrial plants, hangars, airport terminals, stadiums, exhibition centers, and more.

At the same time, China’s light steel structure buildings have also developed rapidly, mainly used in light industrial plants, granaries, stadiums, exhibition halls, mobile houses, additional floors on existing buildings, and various markets for building materials, furniture, etc. With foreign housing manufacturers entering China, market competition has become increasingly fierce. Insulation and thermal insulation materials, fireproof and anti-corrosion coatings, lighting components, doors and windows, and connectors compatible with light steel structures have also developed rapidly, with product quality continuously improving and varieties and specifications basically meeting the needs of light steel buildings.

Due to the lightweight, good seismic performance, and high degree of industrialization of steel structures, they are a green and environmentally friendly product, making them highly suitable for residential buildings. The market prospect for the development of steel structures in China is very broad, aligning with the national policy of protecting the environment and land resources. China’s total steel product volume is relatively high, providing a material foundation for the vigorous development of steel structures.