Description

In hot weather concrete may expand, referred to as thermal expansion. If the resultant pressure cannot be relieved, then the concrete may crack then buckle.


Risk factors for concrete buckling in hot weather:

(1) type of concrete and aggregate

(2) inadequate expansion joints between concrete segments to allow for expansion

(3) excessive heat

(4) rapid or uneven temperature fluctuations

(5) old concrete

(6) excessive hydration

(7) lack of concrete reinforcement

 

Consequences of excessive thermal expansion:

(1) buckling of a roadway

(2) structural failure (bridges, other)


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