ACI 231R-10

Early-age cracking is a challenge for the concrete industry. Materials selection, environmental conditions, and field practices all have considerable influence on the propensity for early-age cracking to occur. This document focuses on thermal- and moisture-related deformations; both are materials-related and contribute to early-age cracking. The document provides detailed reviews on the causes of deformation and cracking, test methods for assessing shrinkage and thermal deformation properties, and mitigation strategies for reducing early-age cracking.

Keywords: autogenous shrinkage; cracking; early-age; heat of hydration; measurement; mitigation methods; microstructure; shrinkage; shrinkage cracking; sustainability; thermal cracking; thermal properties.