1.1. Tensile Failure

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is tensile failure?

   Hint

   Think about what happens when a material is pulled apart.

2. 2.

   How does concrete behave under tensile stress?

   Hint

   Remember the relationship between tension and strength.

3. 3.

   What happens when tensile stress exceeds tensile strength in concrete?

   • It becomes stronger
   • It cracks
   • It bends

   Hint

   Think about the breaking point of materials.

4. 4.

   Tensile failure is a brittle failure. True or False?

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall the abrupt nature of cracks.

5. 5.

   A concrete beam is designed with a tensile strength of 2.5 MPa. A load is applied that creates a tensile stress of 3 MPa. What will happen to the beam? Explain the process leading to its failure.

   Hint

   Consider what occurs when the limits of material properties are reached.

6. 6.

   Consider a scenario where a bridge made from concrete is being evaluated for tensile failure. Discuss the variables that could influence tensile strength under different environmental conditions and potential reinforcements that could be used.

   Hint

   Consider how external factors modify the material properties.