What type of cracking in concrete bridge decks is primarily caused by restrained volume changes due to drying shrinkage?

Angel Patricio Garcia

“The type of cracking in concrete bridge decks primarily caused by restrained volume changes due to drying shrinkage is typically reffered to as plastic shrinkage cracking and early age cracking. As concrete loses moisture after placement, it shrinks, and when this shrinkage is restrained by reinforced steel, the base slab, or other elements, tensile stresses build up in the concrete; if these stresses exceed the concretes tensile strength at that age, cracking results. These cracks typically appear as shallow, irregular patterns on the deck surface soon after placement, before the concrete has gained much strength. They're particularly concerning because they create pathways for water and de-icing salts to penetrate the concrete, accelerating deterioration.”

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Kareem Hesham Mahmoud Awad

“The type of cracking in concrete bridge decks primarily caused by restrained volume changes due to drying shrinkage is typically referred to as plastic shrinkage cracking and early-age cracking. Drying shrinkage is the reduction in volume that occurs as concrete loses moisture after it has been placed. When this shrinkage is restrained by reinforcing steel, the base slab, or other elements, tensile stresses develop in the concrete. If these tensile stresses exceed the concrete's tensile strength, cracking will occur. These cracks often appear as shallow, irregular cracks on the surface of the deck soon after the concrete is poured and before it has gained significant strength. These cracks are particularly problematic as they provide pathways for water and de-icing salts to penetrate the concrete, accelerating deterioration.”

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