Case 3
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- Introduction
- Causes of Defects
- Good Practices
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- Maintenance and Diagnostics
- Remedial
- Similar Cases
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Concrete Hairline Cracks
Introduction
Hairline cracks in concrete are a common type of concrete defect. It is indicative of several potential issues such as weakening structural integrity and corroding reinforced steel rebar. These cracks act as a way for water or aggressive solutions to enter. With enough time and exposure, the result is the corrosion of the internal rebar. This is due to the fact that rust (iron oxide) is an expansive compound, which creates an outward pushing force against the surrounding concrete. The pushing force causes cracking and with sufficient and deep enough cracks, spalling (breaking away of concrete) occurs.