Assessment of Post-Restrained Shrinkage Mechanical Properties of Concrete

Restrained shrinkage induced cracks can cause issues with serviceability, structural integrity and durability in concrete, but are difficult to predict. This paper proposes a simple, and economical test rig for restrained shrinkage and associated procedures to assess the post-shrinkage mechanical properties (compressive and flexural strength) of concrete. The results show that the restraining factor of the proposed rig is dependent on the time and the stiffness of the concrete. Results of residual mechanical properties show that restrained shrinkage induced cracks can affect the mechanical behaviour (flexural and compressive strength and stiffness) of concrete by up to 21%.