Qualitative analogy between performance loss and microstructural manifestation of different damaging effects on concrete

Abstract

The effects of different controlled damaging phenomena on the performance characteristics and microstructural attributes of concrete were investigated. The microcracking system of concrete following different damaging effects was investigated under microscopy; analogies were drawn between the extent/nature of microcrack growth in concrete and the corresponding loss of concrete engineering properties. Normal-strength, high-strength and fibre reinforced concrete materials were investigated. The damaging phenomena considered included compression loading, freeze–thaw cycles, restraint of shrinkage in different climates and exposure to elevated temperature. The engineering properties investigated included compressive, flexural and splitting tensile strength. The results provide insight into the damage and failure process of concrete.