FE-Study on the Effect of Gradient Concrete on Early Constraint and Crack Risk

Abstract

In long-lasting mass concrete structures the desired material properties of the concrete mix to realize a durable concrete and a concrete surface without cracks conflict with each other. The requirement of concrete with high durability leads to high thermal energy release and therefore, as another consequence, to high crack risk. Crack reduction is achieved by use of concrete with low hydration energy, which on the other hand leads to a decrease in concrete durability. Besides from optimized base materials and concrete technology, a gradient material distribution in the cross-section could reduce the problem since durable concrete is needed near the surface and the requirement of low-hydration energy is located in the center of the member. A simplified model is used to investigate the possible effect of a gradient concrete material distribution in mass concrete structures on crack reduction. The results of the analysis show that gradient concrete might contribute to lowering the constraint stresses and therefore the crack risk during concrete hardening.

Keywords

• gradient concrete
• mass concrete
• constraint
• early age concrete
• hydration
• durability
• crack risk
• numerical simulation
• performance-based design