Effect of Steam Curing Scheme on the Early-Age Temperature Field of a Prefabricated Concrete T-Beam

An investigation of cracks caused by concrete shrinkage and temperature difference in common reinforced concrete bridge structures.

“…1 and has been reported in various research studies [19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27][28][29][30]. The phenomenon has garnered significant attention globally, with the cause of cracking believed to be attributed to the effects of concrete shrinkage and temperature differences, particularly during the early stages when these effects are most pronounced [4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15].…”

“…This difference indicates a divergence in temperatures between the two materials, leading to an increase in the slip force within the range, l s,max . The temperature difference also plays a crucial role in influencing crack formation in immature concrete [4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18]. Either the heat of hydration of concrete or variations in outdoor temperature cause the temperature differences [3,[4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27][28][29][30].…”

“…The temperature difference also plays a crucial role in influencing crack formation in immature concrete [4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18]. Either the heat of hydration of concrete or variations in outdoor temperature cause the temperature differences [3,[4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27][28][29][30]. In the context of hydration heat, temperatures recorded in laboratory environments or actual construction sites, especially for larger structures, can reach up to 90°C [4][5][6][7][8]…”

“…Either the heat of hydration of concrete or variations in outdoor temperature cause the temperature differences [3,[4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27][28][29][30]. In the context of hydration heat, temperatures recorded in laboratory environments or actual construction sites, especially for larger structures, can reach up to 90°C [4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][ 23-30][40-43]. It is assumed that this heat quickly spreads through the transverse and longitudinal steel bars, transferring to the steel reinforcement near the concrete surface before dissipating, thereby creating a temperature difference.…”

“…These factors are most impactful during the initial stages of the concrete's life [4][5][6][7]. Many studies have analyzed crack formation to reduce its occurrence in this phase [8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15]. In fact, cracks can still form in areas not primarily responsible for cracking due to excessive loading, even after the concrete has fully hardened.…”