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CHAPTER 4
ANALYSIS OF CAUSES AND REMEDIATION TECHNIQUES FOR
CRACKS IN CASE STUDY AREA

4.1. General
Reinforced concrete building, TU (Sittwe) is prone to cracking due to a
variety of reasons such as the use of materials containing chloride during
construction, improper curing, poor construction practice and lack of maintenance.
These cracks can compromise the structural integrity of the building, leading to
potential safety hazards. Therefore, it is essential to understand the causes of
cracks in RCC building, as well as prevention and remedial measures.
By taking preventative measures during the design and construction stages,
such as using good quality materials, proper reinforcement and curing, the
occurrence of cracks can be minimized. Remedial measures, such as repairing and
strengthening the affected areas, can also help to prevent further damage. Overall,
a thorough understanding of the causes and prevention measures for cracks in
reinforced concrete building is crucial to ensure the safety and longevity of these
structures.

4.2. Occurrence of Cracks in Study Area

Types of cracks found in reinforced concrete building, TU (Sittwe) are
diagonal crack, horizontal crack, splitting crack, corrosion crack, shear crack,
chemical reaction crack, drying shrinkage crack and crazing crack.

4.2.1. Diagonal Crack

Diagonal cracks can appear anywhere along with the reinforced concrete’s
height. These types of cracks always affect the entire concrete column face.
Diagonal cracks must be repaired immediately since they might weaken the entire
structure in a short period of time.
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Diagonal cracks may be caused by these cases: use of poor quality

concrete,
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inadequate reinforcement, foundation settlement, corrosion of reinforcement and

excessive loads.
To prevent diagonal cracks in reinforced concrete building, proper design,
construction, and maintenance are essential. Firstly, ensure that the building's
structural design is carried out by qualified engineers with adequate attention to
load distribution and material properties. Secondly, use high-quality concrete and
steel reinforcement during construction. Thirdly, avoid overloading the building
beyond its design capacity. Fourthly, regular inspection and maintenance of the
building can identify and rectify any potential weaknesses before they lead to
cracks. Finally, avoid sudden temperature changes, as these can cause expansion
and contraction of the building materials, leading to cracks.
Diagonal cracks can be repaired by these methods: grout injection, steel
plate wrapping, carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) wrapping and concrete
jacketing. Diagonal crack found in reinforced concrete building, TU (Sittwe) is as
shown in Figure 4.1.

Figure 4.1. Diagonal Cracks in Column

4.2.2. Horizontal Crack

Horizontal cracks are most commonly encountered at beam and column
junctions, as well as at the column face, where tensile stress is high. If allowed to
persist, horizontal cracks would reduce the shear strength of the column, posing a
significant danger of structural failure.
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Horizontal cracks may be caused by these cases: poor quality concrete,

corrosion of reinforcement, overloading, foundation settlement and poor
construction quality.
To prevent horizontal cracks in reinforced concrete building, it is important
to follow certain guidelines during the construction process. Firstly, ensure that the
steel reinforcements are of high quality and placed at the right positions. Secondly,
use good quality cement and aggregates while preparing the concrete mix. Thirdly,
avoid overloading or overstressing the structure by adhering to the load-bearing
capacity of the building. Lastly, take measures to prevent moisture infiltration by
using waterproofing agents in the concrete and ensuring proper drainage systems.
Regular maintenance and inspection of the building can also help in identifying
any early signs of cracks and taking corrective measures.
Horizontal cracks can be repaired by these methods: grout injection,
retrofitting by steel materials, partial re-construction and concrete jacketing. The
most appropriate method of repair depends on the extent of the damage and the
load-bearing capacity of the column. Horizontal crack found in reinforced concrete
building, TU (Sittwe) is as shown in Figure 4.2.

Figure 4.2. Horizontal

Cracks in Column

4.2.3. Splitting Crack

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Split cracking appears as short parallel vertical cracks with non-uniform

width on the column entire face. Splitting crack may be caused by these cases:
poor
quality concrete, insufficient reinforcement, overloading and structural movement.
Splitting cracks in reinforced concrete building can be prevented by the
following certain construction guidelines. Firstly, ensure that the concrete mix is
properly proportioned and placed to avoid any weak spots. Secondly, provide
sufficient curing time to the concrete before removing the formwork. Thirdly, use
proper reinforcement detailing and ensure that it is placed correctly. Fourthly,
avoid overloading the structure and stick to the design load capacity. Lastly,
ensure proper drainage to avoid any water accumulation around the building.
Regular inspection and maintenance can also help in identifying any early signs of
cracks and taking corrective measures.
Splitting cracks can be repaired by these methods: grout Injection, steel
plate wrapping, carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) wrapping and concrete
jacketing. The most appropriate method of repair depends on the extent of the
damage and the load-bearing capacity of the column. It is recommended to consult
a structural engineer to determine the best course of action. Splitting crack found
in reinforced concrete building, TU (Sittwe) is as shown in Figure 4.3.

Figure 4.3. Splitting Cracks in Column

4.2.4. Corrosion Crack

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Corrosion cracks form primarily along the course of the concrete column
reinforcement. Corrosion cracks are mostly the same width and usually get wider
as they age.
Corrosion cracks may be caused by these cases: chloride attack, inadequate
cover, poor quality concrete mix and exposure to harsh environment.
Corrosion cracks in reinforced concrete building can be prevented by
taking
certain measures during the construction process. Firstly, use good quality
concrete with low permeability to prevent moisture and chemicals from
penetrating the structure. Secondly, use high-quality steel reinforcements that are
properly coated or protected to resist corrosion. Thirdly, avoid any exposure to
chloride or other chemicals that can accelerate corrosion. Fourthly, provide proper
ventilation to prevent the buildup of humidity and moisture in the building. Lastly,
regular inspection and maintenance can help in identifying any early signs of
corrosion and taking corrective measures.
Corrosion cracks can be repaired by these methods: epoxy injection,
concrete replacement, metal plate bonding and carbon fiber reinforcement.
Corrosion crack found in the reinforced concrete building, TU (Sittwe) is as shown
in Figure 4.4.

Figure 4.4. Corrosion Cracks in Slab and Beam

4.2.5. Shear Crack

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Shear capacity of the member is inadequate cross-section or stirrups are

insufficient in beam sections. Generally, this cracks form in 45 degree or diagonal.
Shear cracks may be caused by these cases: insufficient shear
reinforcement, poor workmanship, overloading, foundation settlement and
earthquake load.
To prevent shear cracks in reinforced concrete buildings, proper design and
construction practices should be followed. This includes ensuring that the
reinforcement detailing is adequate and properly placed, the concrete mix is of the
appropriate strength, and the construction process follows standard practices.
Additionally, providing sufficient lateral support to the columns and walls,
avoiding sharp corners or edges, and ensuring proper curing of the concrete can
also help prevent shear cracks. Regular inspection and maintenance of the building
can also identify potential issues early and prevent further damage.
Shear cracks can be repaired by these methods: epoxy injection, concrete
replacement, grout injection and steel reinforcement. Shear crack found in
reinforced concrete building, TU (Sittwe) is as shown in Figure 4.5.

Figure 4.5. Shear Cracks in Arch Parapet

4.2.6. Chemical Reaction Crack

Concrete may crack with time as the result of slowly developing expansive
reactions between aggregate containing active silica and alkalis derived from
cement hydration, admixtures or external sources.
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Chemical reaction cracks may be caused by these cases: alkali-silica

reaction, sulphate attack and corrosion of reinforcement.
To prevent chemical reaction cracks in reinforced concrete building, it is
important to use high-quality materials and ensure that they are compatible with
each other. This includes using cement with low alkali content, avoiding the use of
reactive aggregates, and using corrosion-resistant reinforcing steel. Proper mix
design and curing practices should also be followed to minimize the risk of
chemical reactions. Additionally, regular inspection and maintenance can help
identify any signs of chemical damage early and take appropriate measures to
prevent further damage.
Chemical reaction cracks can be repaired by these methods: sanding and
polishing, fillers, resurfacing and concrete replacement. Chemical reaction crack
found in reinforced concrete building, TU (Sittwe) is as shown in Figure 4.6.

Figure 4.6. Cracks caused by Chemical Reaction in Slab

4.2.7. Drying Shrinkage Crack

Drying shrinkage occurs when water starts evaporating from the exposed
surface and the moisture differential along the depth of the slab causes strain
which induces tensile stresses. Due to this drying shrinkage, cracks are noticed on
the surface of concrete. Normally, these cracks are non-structural cracks and do
not affect on the safety and stability of building but show poor quality of
construction, faulty execution and show a feeling of instability.
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Drying shrinkage cracks may be caused by these cases: rapid moisture loss,
high temperature, high wind velocity, insufficient cover, inadequate curing,
improper mix design, high cement content and inadequate reinforcement.
To prevent drying shrinkage cracks in RCC buildings, it is important to
use a proper mix design that includes the right combination of cement, aggregates,
and water. This helps to ensure that the concrete does not dry out too quickly and
shrink excessively. Additionally, proper curing practices, such as keeping the
concrete moist for a sufficient period of time, can also help prevent drying
shrinkage cracks. Providing appropriate joint spacing and using reinforcement in
areas where cracking is likely can also help prevent this type of damage. Regular
inspection and maintenance can identify any potential issues early and prevent
further damage.
Drying Shrinkage cracks can be repaired by these methods: surface sealing,
concrete replacement and grout injection. Drying shrinkage crack found in
reinforced concrete building, TU (Sittwe) is as shown in Figure 4.7.

Figure 4.7. Drying Shrinkage Cracks in Wall

4.2.8. Crazing Crack

Crazing is the development of a network of fine random cracks or fissures
on the surface of concrete caused by shrinkage of the surface layer. These cracks
are rarely more than 3mm deep, and are more noticeable on over floated or steel-
troweled surfaces.
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Crazing cracks may be caused by these cases: use of poor quality materials,
improper curing, design or construction errors, overloading and corrosion of
reinforcement.
To prevent crazing cracks in RCC buildings, it is important to use a proper
mix design that includes the right combination of cement, aggregates, and water.
Overworking the surface during finishing should be avoided, as this can cause
excessive bleeding and result in crazing cracks. Additionally, the use of
appropriate curing techniques, such as the use of curing compounds or water
curing, can help prevent crazing cracks. Properly designed and placed joints can
also help to prevent this type of damage. Regular inspection and maintenance can
identify any potential issues early and prevent further damage.
Crazing cracks can be repaired by these methods: sanding & polishing,
fillers, resurfacing and concrete replacement. Crazing crack found in reinforced
concrete building, TU (Sittwe) is as shown in Figure 4.8.

Figure 4.8. Crazing Cracks

in Slab