Title: Increase in Crack Width in Reinforced Concrete Beams Under Sustained Loading

Author(s): LeRoy A. Lutz, Nand K. Sharma, and Peter Gergely

Publication: Journal Proceedings

Volume: 64

Issue: 9

Appears on pages(s): 538-546

Keywords: beams (structural);cracking (fracturing);crack width and spacing;creep (materials);deflection;loads (forces);reinforced concrete;reinforcement; research; shrinkage

DOI: 10.14359/7582

Date: 9/1/1967

Abstract:
Test results are presented for the increase of flexural crack widths due to sustained loading. The width of the cracks were measured for 5 months. The effects of compression reinforcement were also investigated. The widening of the cracks is explained by the increase in steel stress at sections between surface cracks due to increased internal cracking, and by the creep of concrete.