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Thermal Cracking

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Hydration of cement is an exothermic process meaning it generates heat. As the concrete cools it contracts and in extreme conditions may contract in three days as much due to cooling as it could in a year due to drying conditions.

A temperature differential of 35^o F within 1 ft is usually considered enough to cause cracking. However, within 24-hours of placement, concrete temperatures can reach anywhere from 20^o to 50^o F hotter than ambient temperatures

Admixtures can work to alter the rate of heat generation but at the same time can result in lower concrete strengths. In mixes where low water/cement ratios are required for durability (such as bridges, parking structures or marine facilities), concrete is often substantially over-designed for strength. In cases like this, heat reducing admixtures can reduce the likelihood of cracking.

For more information on shrinkage or thermal cracking visit the engineering bulletin on Shrinkage Reducing Admixture.

Review this Grace Construction Engineering Bulletin

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