Crack Resistance of Concrete and Reinforced Concrete Structures From the Perspective of Fracture Mechanics

This work presents the results of the analysis andsynthesis of scientific and technical sources, as well asa series of studies on reinforced concrete structuresof newly constructed and long-operating buildingsand facilities. The results of studies based on theprinciples of fracture mechanics of reinforced concretestructures, especially over the last 30 years, presentedin monographs and reference books, are summarized.An analysis of individual works, which includesresearch data on reinforced concrete structuresof buildings and facilities with prolonged use andtheoretical research on reliability and durability withan assessment of residual life, has been conducted.The main theoretical models of crack formation,testing schemes, and assessment of research results oncrack development in reinforced concrete structureshave been thoroughly analyzed. Modern views onthe fracture mechanics of reinforced concrete as abrittle material have been examined. An evaluationof the applied methods of probability theory andmathematical statistics, including techniques andmethods of physical, technical, and mathematicalmodeling, has been performed. As a result of theresearch conducted, the main causes of degradationof construction structures and a methodology forrepair and restoration works of such structures withdetermination of residual life were established andsummarized in respective monographs and referencebooks. It was found that the main causes boil downto design errors, defects, and shortcomings inconstruction and operation. Based on the generalizedand critically analyzed scientific-technical sources anda series of studies, a methodology for the technicaldiagnostics of reinforced concrete structures and amethod of reinforcement using modern technologiesand materials have been developed. The use ofthese technologies and materials allows significantlyincreasing the service life and reliability of thementioned structures and making justified conclusionsregarding the restoration of their residual life andensuring further reliable operation.