Concrete Creep and Shrinkage Calculator

FAQs

How do you calculate concrete creep? Concrete creep is often calculated using mathematical models such as the ACI (American Concrete Institute) or CEB (Comité Euro-International du Béton) models. A simplified estimation can be found using the formula: Creep (in millimeters) ≈ Age (in days) × 0.001.

What is the relationship between shrinkage and creep? Shrinkage and creep are related but distinct phenomena in concrete. Shrinkage refers to the initial volume reduction due to drying and temperature changes, while creep is the time-dependent deformation and expansion of concrete under sustained loads. Shrinkage can influence creep, but they are not directly proportional.

What is the maximum creep in concrete? The maximum creep in concrete can vary depending on several factors, including the mix design, environmental conditions, and loading history. As an estimation, the maximum creep may range from 0.2% to 0.6% of the total strain.

How do you test for creep and shrinkage? Creep and shrinkage are typically tested using specialized laboratory tests such as the ASTM C512 Standard Test Method for Creep of Concrete in Compression and the ASTM C157 Standard Test Method for Length Change of Hardened Hydraulic-Cement Mortar and Concrete. These tests involve applying loads and monitoring deformation over time.

What is the formula for the creep test? The formula for calculating creep in a laboratory test is often specific to the test method being used, such as the ACI or CEB models. There isn’t a single formula that universally applies to all creep tests.

How can we reduce creep in concrete? To reduce creep in concrete, you can use lower water-cement ratios, utilize high-strength concrete, incorporate shrinkage-reducing admixtures, and ensure proper curing. Additionally, prestressing the concrete can reduce long-term deformation.

What is shrinkage and creep of concrete? Shrinkage of concrete is the initial reduction in volume due to drying and temperature changes. Creep of concrete is the time-dependent deformation and expansion of concrete under sustained loads.

What is the percentage of shrinkage in concrete? The percentage of shrinkage in concrete can vary, but it is typically in the range of 0.04% to 0.08% of the initial length. This is equivalent to 400 to 800 microstrains.

How much strength should concrete gain in 7 days? Concrete should gain approximately 60% to 70% of its specified 28-day compressive strength by the end of 7 days.

What 4 factors affect the creep in concrete? Four factors that affect creep in concrete are the water-cement ratio, concrete mix proportions, curing conditions, and aggregate type.

What is the basic creep of concrete? The basic creep of concrete is the time-dependent deformation under sustained load without any external drying or moisture changes. It is a fundamental property of concrete.

Is creep good for concrete? Creep is a natural property of concrete, and in many structural applications, it is considered beneficial because it allows concrete structures to adapt to long-term loads. However, excessive creep can lead to unwanted deformation.

Does concrete shrink over time? Concrete undergoes initial shrinkage due to drying and temperature changes, but it can also expand over time due to creep when subjected to sustained loads.

How do you know if creep is failing? Creep is considered to be failing when the deformation under sustained load exceeds the acceptable limits specified in structural design codes. Engineers use calculations and measurements to assess creep behavior.

What is the standard for shrinkage test for concrete? The standard test method for measuring the drying shrinkage of concrete is typically ASTM C157.

What is a typical creep test? A typical creep test involves subjecting a concrete specimen to a sustained load and measuring the deformation (creep) over a specified time period, often using specialized testing equipment.

What does a creep test tell you? A creep test provides information about the time-dependent deformation of concrete under sustained load. It helps engineers assess how concrete structures may behave over time.

What causes creep failure? Creep failure can occur when concrete undergoes excessive deformation under sustained load, compromising the structural integrity and functionality of a construction element.

How do you prevent creep failure? Preventing creep failure involves using proper mix design, controlling the water-cement ratio, providing adequate curing, and considering structural prestressing or post-tensioning methods.

Does loss of water cause creep in concrete? Loss of water can contribute to shrinkage in concrete, which is a related but distinct phenomenon from creep. Shrinkage and creep are both influenced by moisture changes but operate on different timescales.

How do you prevent creep failure in reinforced concrete? Preventing creep failure in reinforced concrete includes using proper reinforcement design, ensuring adequate curing, and controlling mix proportions to minimize the risk of excessive deformation.

Is creep reversible? Creep in concrete is generally considered irreversible. Once deformation occurs under sustained load, it does not fully recover when the load is removed.

How much shrinkage is acceptable? Acceptable shrinkage in concrete is typically less than 0.04% to 0.08% of the initial length, which is equivalent to 400 to 800 microstrains.

What is the ideal shrinkage percentage? The ideal shrinkage percentage for concrete is typically considered to be less than 0.05% of the initial length, or 500 microstrains.

What is the difference between shrinkage and creep? Shrinkage is the initial volume reduction in concrete due to drying and temperature changes, while creep is the time-dependent deformation and expansion of concrete under sustained loads.

How long does it take for concrete to reach 50% strength? Concrete often reaches approximately 50% of its specified 28-day compressive strength in about 3 to 7 days, depending on mix design and curing conditions.

Does concrete get harder after 28 days? Concrete continues to gain strength after 28 days, but the rate of strength gain slows down significantly. Concrete can continue to strengthen for years.

How long does it take for concrete to reach 75% strength? Concrete typically reaches approximately 75% of its specified 28-day compressive strength in about 14 to 28 days, depending on mix design and curing conditions.

What increases creep? Factors that can increase creep in concrete include high water-cement ratios, higher temperatures, and sustained loads. Additionally, low-strength concrete may exhibit more creep.

What is the creep coefficient for 28 days? The creep coefficient for concrete at 28 days depends on various factors, but it is generally in the range of 1.5 to 2.5.

What are the three important stages of creep? The three important stages of creep in concrete are the primary, secondary, and tertiary stages. Each stage represents different rates of deformation over time.