Evaluation of Parameters Affecting Thermal Stresses in Mass Concrete

Abstract : This report describes an investigation to evaluate parameters that affect thermal stresses in mass concrete. This investigation was part of a cooperative effort conducted at Corps District Offices to support construction of the second lock in Melvin Price Locks and Dam. The investigation was based upon implementation of ABAQUS, a finite element analysis program capable of performing complete incremental construction analyses of complex mass concrete structures during and following construction. A number of parameters were identified as critical in terms of having potentially significant effects on final stresses, structural displacements, and load distribution. These parameters include: (a) The incremental construction formulation. (b) Concrete aging (i.e. compressive strength, tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, etc.) (c) Creep and stress relaxation. (d) Shrinkage. (e) Cracking(Fracturing).