Plastic Shrinkage Cracking of Self-compacting Concrete: Influence of Capillary Pressure and Dormant Period

Abstract This research investigates the effect of capillary pressure and the length of the hydration dormant period on the plastic shrinkage cracking tendency of SCC by studying specimens produced with different w/c ratios, cement types and SP dosages. A relationship between the capillary pressure rate and the length of the hydration dormant period is defined, which can explain the cracking severity of the concrete when the volumetric deformation is unknown. The results show, that the cracking tendency of SCC was the lowest in case of w/c ratio between 0.45 and 0.55, finer and more rapid hardening cement, and lower dosage of SP. The dormant period was prolonged by increasing the w/c ratio, using coarser cement, and higher SP dosage. It was concluded that the cracking tendency of concrete is a function of the capillary pressure buildup rate and the length of the dormant period.