4.2. Causes of Cracking

Try these first

1. 1.

   What type of cracks arise from load and settlement?

   Hint

   Think about what affects the integrity of a structure.

2. 2.

   What causes plastic shrinkage cracks?

   Hint

   Focus on the condition of the concrete during placement.

3. 3.

   What type of crack is primarily caused by moisture evaporation?

   • A. Plastic Shrinkage
   • B. Thermal
   • C. Creep

   Hint

   Consider the condition of the concrete during placement.

4. 4.

   True or False: Non-structural cracks do not pose any risks to a structure’s integrity.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about long-term impact.

5. 5.

   Consider a newly constructed bridge showing signs of plastic shrinkage cracking within days of completion. Propose a strategy to minimize such cracking during future constructions.

   Hint

   Focus on moisture retention and temperature management.

6. 6.

   A concrete structure is experiencing significant alkali-silica reaction (ASR) issues. What measures can be taken in design and material selection to mitigate these effects?

   Hint

   Think about the interaction of materials in concrete.