Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 19, 2025

Full-field Strain Measurements for Microstructurally Small Fatigue Crack Propagation Using Digital Image Correlation Method
Published on: January 16, 2019
Insight into Thermal Stress Distribution and Required Reinforcement Reducing Early-Age Cracking in Mass Foundation
Barbara Klemczak1, Aneta Żmij1
1Faculty of Civil Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Akademicka 5, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland.
Abstract:
The heat released during cement hydration results in temperature-induced non-uniform volume changes in concrete structures. As a consequence, tensile thermal stresses of significant values may occur. The level of these stresses can be lowered by using various technological measures during the construction process and a proper concrete mix composition. Nevertheless, the application of an appropriate reinforcement is a reliable method for controlling the width and spacing of possible cracks. The rules for calculating this reinforcement are not precisely detailed in the standards devoted to concrete structures. Additionally, the correct calculation of the reinforcement requires the identification of the tensile stress distribution in a mass slab. The presented study provides insight into stress distribution and relevant reinforcement for controlling early-age cracks of thermal origin. The existing standards and guidelines are discussed and clarified. The possible paths for calculating the reinforcement are proposed through the example of mass foundation slabs with different levels of external restraints. The results indicate a significant impact of the calculation method as well as the restraint conditions of the slab on the area of required reinforcement.
Related Concept Videos
Mass Concreting
To reduce the risk of such cracking, the concrete mix may incorporate low-heat cement and pozzolans to reduce the temperature rise. Pre-cooled angular aggregates and water-reducing admixtures...
Types of Non-structural Cracks in Concrete
Plastic shrinkage cracks typically form within hours after the concrete is poured. The concrete's surface dries faster than the bottom, creating tensile stress that the still-plastic concrete cannot withstand, leading to diagonal or randomly patterned cracks on the concrete surface.
Thermal Stress
Microcracking in Concrete
Frost Action on Concrete
This freeze-thaw cycle primarily causes surface scaling, where...
Design Example: Managing Concrete Workability

