Non-Shrink Grout

[ticas]

I'm just wondering while researching about non-shrink grout. Can one make an entire beam or column using non-shrink grout instead of poured concrete? What is its disadvantage aside from price? What is the equivalent aggregate sizes of non-shrink grout, 3/4" or 1" or is it equal to ready-mix concrete of finer aggregates?

 

[TXStructural]

In short, you can't afford it. Properly designed concrete will work fine for almost every application. If needed, you can specify shrinkage-compensating concrete.

 

[cvg]

pre-packaged high strength, non-shrink grout generally does not have any coarse aggregate, only sand. it can sometimes be mixed with up to 3/8 inch rock for grouting large voids, but that will perform differently than ordinary 3/4 or 1 inch mix concrete. I can't think of a good reason to do what you suggest not to mention the much higher cost.