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Mass Concrete Consulting

 

Mass concrete can generate substantial heat during the initial hydration of the cementitious material. These high internal temperatures can later cause delayed ettringite formation (DEF), a condition that can cause expansion and cracking of the hardened concrete. In addition, thermal cracks can occur in early-age concrete as the surface of the concrete element cools while the temperature of the core of the element remains relatively high. Our engineers have extensive experience assisting owners, contractors, and materials suppliers with their mass concrete projects.

 

Mass concrete specifications typically limit the maximum internal temperature and limit the temperature difference between the surface and the interior core of the element. The maximum concrete temperature is typically limited to mitigate the potential for DEF, which can later cause cracking in the concrete after it is placed into service. The maximum temperature differential difference is typically limited to minimize the risk of early-age thermal cracking.

Our engineers generate project-specific thermal control plans based on thermal analysis of the concrete elements. Our engineers can assist contractors with RFIs related to mass concrete specifications. In addition, we can develop low-heat concrete mixtures to help ready-mix suppliers and contractors minimize the costs of precooling the concrete. If necessary, post-cooling plans can also be provided to accelerate construction schedules.

From 8-foot-diameter columns to 9,000-cubic-yard placements, we provide a wide range of consulting services for projects with mass concrete elements.

  • Thermal control plans
  • Concrete mixture design
  • Mass concrete specification review
  • Performance-based temperature limit development
  • Post-cooling plans (i.e., cooling pipes)
  • Delayed ettringite formation evaluation
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