Mass Concrete
"Mass concrete is defined as any volume of concrete with dimensions large enough to require that measures be taken to cope with generation of heat from hydration of the cementitious materials and attendant volume change to minimize cracking. A gravity dam and a navigation lock are examples of massive structures." [1]
One key consideration of mass concrete is the control of the heat of hydration to reduce potential for uncontrolled cracking due to thermal expansion and subsequent contraction. This is most often accomplished by limiting the volume/dimensions of each specific pour and allowing a curing period prior to subsequent pours. Where this is not feasible, additional cooling methods may be employed.
Best Practices Resources
Standard Practice for Concrete for Civil Works Structures (EM 1110-2-2000), USACE, 1994
Trainings
On-Demand Webinar: Concrete Construction - Issues and Remedies
On-Demand Webinar: Uplift and Drainage for Concrete Dams and Spillways
Citations:
Revision ID: 6710
Revision Date: 03/17/2023