Generally, you would have observed when you cast concrete slab, and after 5 to 6 hours or the next day, there are hair cracks in concrete slab.
Many questions come to your mind, like why do these cracks develop? How can we stop it? Will my slab break? etc.
Concrete cracks are not suitable for any building or structure. Cracks provide a path for moisture and oxygen to react with steel reinforcement, which leads to corrosion.
Due to corrosion, steel volume may increase 2 to 6.5 times than its original volume, which may damage the structure, and it may collapse.
Environment Temperature is the most critical and ample reason for cracks in concrete. Environmental temperature is most vital for concreting.
Water-Cement Ratio is another main reason for cracks in concrete. The water-cement ratio should be as per the design mix of concrete grade.
Vibration Frequency is another crucial reason for cracks in concrete. Excessive vibration may cause cracks in concrete.
Presence of Silt in Sand - If the sand used in concrete contains silt, then it can develop cracks in the concrete.
Steel temperature - If steel reinforcement's temperature is high thermal expansion may occur, which may develop cracks in concrete.
Click on learn more to know why concrete slab cracks the next day of casting and how you can prevent them.