Long-term flexural cracking of reinforced concrete members

A rational and simple analytical model to predict the time varying cracking moment of reinforced concrete sections under sustained loading is developed. The modeling procedure is based on equilibrium and compatibility requirements and takes into account the interdependent effects of creep and shrinkage as well as the presence of axial loading. A parametric study is conducted in which particular consideration is given to the effects of reinforcement ratio, level of loading, and creep and shrinkage characteristics of concrete. It is concluded that the reduction in cracking moment is mainly attributed to shrinkage. The effect of shrinkage is more pronounced at low levels of sustained loading and at high reinforcement ratios. This effect is lessened by the compression steel and creep particularly when the applied moment is near the cracking moment.