Plastic Shrinkage of thin Layers of TRC and SHCC

Strain-hardening cement-based composites (SHCC) and textile reinforced concrete (TRC) can be used for repair and strengthening of existing concrete structures. In this field of application the permeation properties of a strengthening layer play an important role to assure a sufficient extension of the service life and durability of a repaired structure. Therefore, the crack development at the thin layers of SHCC and TRC is of high interest. One of the mechanisms, which can lead to cracking of a strengthening layer in the early age is plastic shrinkage. Its negative effects are more pronounced in conditions of hot dry climate. For this reason, the aim of this experimental work was to investigate the plastic shrinkage of thin layers of SHCC and TRC in hot climatic conditions. The investigation was performed on different substrates; the use of superabsorbent polymers (SAP) was one of the parameters of the investigation. The influence of dispersed short fibers and textile reinforcement on plastic shrinkage behavior of TRC was also examined. The experiments were conducted in the climatic chamber of the Laboratory of the Institute of Building Materials of TU Dresden.