Methods and procedural considerations in demolishing tall concrete chimneys

This paper reports on a study of possible demolition methods for tall concrete chimneys. In particular it discusses a case where the adjoining plant functions had to remain fully operational during the demolition process. Therefore, both operational and cost concerns in relation to demolition methods and procedures are discussed. In fact, operational risk factors can be critical in the selection of demolition methods. It was found that when diamond sawing was chosen as the method for demolishing reinforced-concrete structures, the cutting pattern can have a significant impact on project cost.