4.4. Effects of Shrinkage

Try these first

1. 1.

   What causes plastic shrinkage?

   Hint

   Think about the conditions right after it rains.

2. 2.

   Name one factor that influences drying shrinkage.

   Hint

   What happens if a concrete mix has too much water?

3. 3.

   What is the primary cause of drying shrinkage?

   • A) Internal reactions
   • B) Moisture loss
   • C) Surface cracking

   Hint

   Consider what happens as concrete sets and interacts with the environment.

4. 4.

   True or False: All shrinkage occurs only when there is a load on the concrete.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Is shrinkage related to moisture or load?

5. 5.

   Explain how low humidity impacts the drying shrinkage of concrete in a region prone to drought.

   Hint

   Consider how water loss is enhanced by environmental conditions.

6. 6.

   Create a step-by-step plan to prevent shrinkage cracking in a large-scale concrete pour during summer.

   Hint

   What methods can you apply immediately and long-term?