Title: Shrinkage Problems in Reinforced Concrete Structures

Author(s): U. Ersoy and T. Tankut

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 117

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 215-226

Keywords: bins; cracking (fracturing); dowels; frames; reinforced concrete; shrinkage; strains; stresses; structural analysis; temperature; tensile stress; Structural Research

DOI: 10.14359/2830

Date: 10/1/1989

Abstract:
Two case studies are presented as examples illustrating the problem of shrinkage in reinforced concrete buildings in Central Turkey, where humidity is quite low and extreme temperature changes take place. The first case discussed is a structure consisting of one-bay frames with curved beams spanning 36 m. Axial tension created by shrinkage had reduced the axial thrust in the beams causing a considerable drop in the flexural capacity and leading to severe cracking. The second case presented is a grain bin where vertical cracks in the silo walls were explained mainly by the restraining effect of the rigid foundation against shrinkage deformations. Types and causes of shrinkage cracks are discussed, and the methods of analysis used are briefly explained for each case. The estimated values of shrinkage deformations in dry climates with extreme temperature changes are compared with experimental values, and some serious possible consequences are explained.