Fundamental study of early age concrete behaviour as a basis for durable concrete structures

An overview is given of a global research program performed at Ghent University, concerning early age concrete. More specifically the early age thermal cracking due to the heat of hydration in hardening massive concrete elements has been focused. A fundamental approach was followed, based on the degree of hydration. By means of the degree of hydration, a fundamental and very accurate description of early age concrete behaviour can be realised. The resulting material laws can be applied Within a further study of the durability of massive concrete structures in marine environment. In this way, the fundamental study of early age concrete behaviour can serve as a basis for further durability improvement of concrete structures.