Shrinkage of concrete: in search of structural strength

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Shrinkage - basic inconvenience of

Concrete All the moisture gradually drifts out of the capillaries of the resulting stone, due to the relatively low strength of the composition, the hardening surface does not withstand tension and begins to deform. To ensure that the process of solidification of the material passed as quickly and correctly as possible, without the formation of unnecessary cracks, the specialists carry out a lot of preventive procedures, use special compositions for processing concrete, and add impurities to the liquid base.

The latter option also allows to increase the strength of concrete, its durability, and hence the life of the entire structure. At the moment, there are several options for explaining the cause of shrinkage. It is impossible to say exactly why concrete was deformed in this or that case, as a rule, there are always several factors influencing the state of the material.

In search of solutions to the shrinkage problem of concrete

First of all, the process begins to occur due to the chemical reaction that occurs when water and cement come into contact with air. However, it is these components that are responsible for the strength of the frozen structure. Due to the initial swelling of the mixture, the size of the structure slightly increases, but these changes are quite noticeable over a large area.

In order to glue certain parts and concrete, it is necessary to use a concrete sealant. Designed with all the features of the material, it does its job well. But to date, specialists have been able to develop non-shrinkage concrete, it can be obtained by adding special additives that affect the density of the material before compression.

Application of this composition can reduce the losses caused by the effects of shrinkage of concrete, and also reduces the consumption of material, which is especially important for large-scale construction. However, if in the course of work it was not possible to avoid troubles, the sealant for joints in concrete will help to solve small problems.

Non-shrinkable concrete can be used for construction purposes when there is a high risk of damaging the structure.

In many countries, the addition of special formulations is considered mandatory in the preparation of material for use. However, most often, this option is used in the repair work of already finished structures, the composition allows filling the slots without fear of damaging the main structure.

Such compositions are indispensable for the repair of the roadway, bridge structures, aerodromes. Quality non-shrinkable concrete - the ability to restore the normal state of the structure in a matter of days.

How to minimize shrinkage of concrete?

To reduce shrinkage to a minimum and the work was completed on time, experts recommend using special mixtures, as well as the use of concrete with a reduced proportion of sand. Depending on whether the work was done earlier, or the builders are in the preparation stage of the mixtures, the most suitable way of minimizing shrinkage is selected.

So, high-quality sealing of concrete is carried out with the help of special tools, which are applied to the frozen structure. Careful care of concrete, compliance with all the requirements for its operation and filling helps to get rid of unpleasant consequences, makes the design more dense, reliable.

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