Strength of ferrocement comes from its degree of homogeneity. To meet this most important qualification, following parameters are to be looked into:

• Volume Fraction: It is a ratio of mesh volume to volume of matrix. It is generally in percentage form.
• Contact Area Factor: By simple mathematics it can be shown that for same value of bars of diameter 6 and wires of diameter 3, the later gives double contact area.This is the precise reason that Ferrocement uses small diameter wires/bars.
• Mesh Area Across Section: Positioning of the wires whether horizontal, vertical or inclined plays decisive part in promoting homogeneity.
  
  

  At this juncture, let's weigh pros and cons of RCC and ferrocement:

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  	RCC	FERROCEMENT
  1.	Fullpledged design procedure.	Mr. Hemant Vaidya has removed tha lacuna and now ferrocement has fullpledged design procedure.
  2.	Steel takes tension and concrete compression (in bending).	Homogeneous.
  3.	Concrete below the neutral axis is redundant.	Any extra matrixing aroun mesh is a waste.
  4.	Moment of inertia has no place in design	Its ductilty is overcome by providing moment of inertia.
  5.	Hardly any scope for precasting	It can be prcast, cast in situ or partially both, called as Stagewise Ferrocement.
  6.	Bulky	Strength to weight ratio higher
  7.	Compaction can not be ensured.	Surface to be matrixed is open for inspection.
  8.	Curing period 4 weeks	Curing required just for one week.
  9.	Minute cracking	Micro cracking

  
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