Abstract: The invention relates to a ductile-failure anchor (2, 32) for concrete elements (3, 39) used in construction. Each anchor (2, 32) includes a plug (4, 34) attached to a securing element (5, 5a or 55) and secured within each concrete element (3, 39). The securing element may included folded bars or a strap 5a. The securing element (5, 55) is placed about the plug (4, 34) and either secured in place (a first option) or held in position about the plug (4, 34) by supports 38 (second option). Each securing element (5, 55) includes at least two regions (10), each region (10) being of a pre-determined length and cross-sectional area. When the anchor (2, 32) is overloaded each region (10) fails in a ductile manner before the burst strength of any part of the concrete element (3, 39) is reached.

Abstract: A method of construction of a multi-storey building which comprises precasting side slab walls (3) with a plurality of cavities (6). The pre-casting includes incorporating shaped lengths of steel bars (8,9) so that one or more lengths pass through each cavity (6). Tie elements (20, 30, 40 or 50) inter-engage with the bar (9) and are secured to the slab floor slab (4) by a concrete or other topping (5), which together form the floor unit (2). The ties can be secured to the bar by a pin (11) once the tie is engaged with or about the bar (9), but may perform this function without a pin. The ties can be one of a number of embodiments.

Abstract: Here is a method of construction of a multi-storey building comprising the following steps: positioning precast side slab walls on the site; each slab wall defining outer and inner wall surfaces with the inner wall surface being inclusive of a plurality of inwardly-extending cavities; positioning one or more precast floor slabs each being of appropriate dimensions for a respective floor of the building; each floor slab having secured thereon or therein one or more retaining means; engaging each retaining means in an adjacent cavity to position the floor slab as required; and securing the so-engaged retaining means such that the respective floor slab is secured relative to the side walls.