Thermal Shrinkage and Creep in Concrete Structures

This lecture covers the concepts of thermal shrinkage and creep in concrete structures, focusing on the factors influencing them and the methods to mitigate their effects. It discusses the vulnerability of massive concrete structures to cracking due to temperature differentials, the importance of cement content and aggregate granulometry in reducing thermal gradients, and strategies such as formwork insulation and chilled water to control fresh concrete temperature. The lecture also delves into the significance of creep in structural elements, the role of water in creep mechanisms, and the interaction between shrinkage and creep in concrete behavior.