Temperature and stress development in ultra-high performance concrete during curing

This paper presents the application of finite element based numerical model to trace the progression of temperature rise and consequent stresses during hydration in a mass ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) blocks. Results from the analysis suggest that severe thermal gradients can develop within UHPC member leading to high thermal stresses, which in turn lead to cracking at the surface of the concrete structure. The main factors that influence temperature rise and stress development in UHPC blocks during curing are batch mix proportions, size of concrete block, mesh reinforcement and presence of any thermal blankets. Provision of thermal blankets or steel wire mesh can lower curing temperature and resulting thermal stress.