1.2. Compressive Failure

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define compressive failure in your own words.

   Hint

   Think about how concrete behaves under high loads.

2. 2.

   What is microcracking?

   Hint

   Consider the first signs of distress in concrete.

3. 3.

   What begins to happen to concrete before compressive failure?

   • Microcracking
   • Spalling
   • Bending

   Hint

   Consider what happens first as stress increases.

4. 4.

   True or False: Compressive failure is less severe than tensile failure.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the consequences of each type of failure.

5. 5.

   Analyze a structural design that has failed due to compressive forces. What factors would you investigate to determine the cause of failure?

   Hint

   Consider the entire lifecycle of the structure.

6. 6.

   Your team is designing a concrete bridge meant to withstand heavy traffic loads. What measures will you implement to prevent compressive failure?

   Hint

   Think about all the stages from design to execution.