04.10 2022
Crack resistance is the ability of a material to resist various mechanical influences (internal and external) that lead to the development of cracks.
This indicator is characterized by the time before the appearance of cracks under the influence of temperature, bending force, compression, tension, and chemical processes. Accordingly, the longer a reinforced concrete structure in the process of operation does not lose its integral structure, the higher the crack resistance of the material. Crack growth is observed if the coefficient of intensity and stress increase exceeds the available threshold values of the material.
Only concrete specimen testing can give a true assessment of crack resistance. Research is an effective method of predicting the stability of a structure in the long term.
External factors such as moisture or temperature, as well as the quality of the material itself can affect the cracking rate of a reinforced concrete structure. To determine the crack resistance value, the material’s strength, elasticity, shrinkage, creep, etc. are taken into account. The effect of negative factors can be intensified by the peculiarities of the structure itself, its shape, and its dimensions.
Studies show that the rate of cracking to a large extent can affect the quality of the cement. For example, cement with a low curing rate in most cases is less susceptible to cracking. Therefore, it is possible to objectively judge the crack resistance of reinforced concrete structures only as a whole.
Even minimal cracks can provoke future structural failure. In the area of the crack, the reinforcement is exposed, resulting in corrosion, leading to even greater expansion of the crack. Increase the crack resistance of concrete with the following steps:
The main task in choosing the optimal composition of the concrete mixture is to find such a ratio in which it will be possible to achieve maximum strength of the material with minimal negative qualities.
To properly repair cracks in reinforced concrete structures, the cause is first identified. Work to repair cracks in reinforced concrete structures can be conditionally divided into 2 directions:
To eliminate cracks in reinforced concrete structures, the injection method is most often used. A special reinforcing mortar is injected into the problem area under pressure. To restore the protective layer, the shotcreting method is used: a pressurized repair mixture is applied to the repaired and cleaned surface.
If the defects in the concrete appeared as a result of shrinkage of the soil, its washout, or decompaction, it is necessary to immediately eliminate the problem.
When contacting the specialists of the GeoResin company you will be offered the most modern and efficient methods of reinforcing the base of reinforced concrete structures in order to maintain their durability, strength, and reliability.
