journal article·2018-09-25Open access

Early-Age Cracking in Concrete: Causes, Consequences, Remedial Measures, and Recommendations

Md. Safiuddin, A. B. M. Amrul Kaish, Chin-Ong Woon, Sudharshan N. Raman

Applied Sciences· Volume 8· Issue 10

Abstract

Cracking is a common problem in concrete structures in real-life service conditions. In fact, crack-free concrete structures are very rare to find in real world. Concrete can undergo early-age cracking depending on the mix composition, exposure environment, hydration rate, and curing conditions. Understanding the causes and consequences of cracking thoroughly is essential for selecting proper measures to resolve the early-age cracking problem in concrete. This paper will help to identify the major causes and consequences of the early-age cracking in concrete. Also, this paper will be useful to adopt effective remedial measures for reducing or eliminating the early-age cracking problem in concrete. Different types of early-age crack, the factors affecting the initiation and growth of early-age cracks, the causes of early-age cracking, and the modeling of early-age cracking are discussed in this paper. A number of examples for various early-age cracking problems of concrete found in different structural elements are also shown. Above all, some recommendations are given for minimizing the early-age cracking in concrete. It is hoped that the information conveyed in this paper will be beneficial to improve the service life of concrete structures. Concrete researchers and practitioners may benefit from the contents of this paper.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Concrete Properties and Behavior · Concrete and Cement Materials Research · Innovative concrete reinforcement materials

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Angelo DelZotto School of Construction Management, George Brown College, 146 Kendal Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 2T9, Canada

Department of Civil Engineering, Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur, 43000 Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia

Centre for Innovative Architecture and Built Environment (SErAMBI), Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia

Smart and Sustainable Township Research Centre (SUTRA), Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia

Funding

The Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia

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