Early-age cracking in concrete structures: Mechanisms and control (2018-2024)
Abstract
Early-age cracking in concrete structures remains prevalent worldwide despite much past research, with serious economic and sustainability impacts. Unlike previous studies, through using a unique combination of novel tests, this research aims to generate a comprehensive set of reliable data to holistically examine all key factors governing the risk of such cracking, including a novel concept concerning zero-stress temperature. Expected outcomes include improved models for fundamental concrete properties from very early ages and tensile stresses due to restrained deformation accumulated from early stage, as well as guidelines for effective crack control in concrete structures ‿ thereby offering significant national benefit.
