& Sciences Publication Pvt. Ltd. Heat of Hydration in the Placement of Mass Concrete

Abstract – The factor distinguishing between normal concrete and mass concrete is the thermal characteristics. Mass concrete is defined as “any volume of concrete with dimensions large enough to require that measures be taken to cope with generation of heat from hydration of the cement and attendant volume change to minimize cracking. ” Use of mass concrete has been in existence over the last two centuries, and it has lately been reaching its full potential in the construction industry. The proper design and construction of mass concrete placements is essential to ensure the durability and serviceability of the structure. Mass concrete is required in massive structures containing beams, columns, piers, dams where its volume is of such a magnitude as to require special means for coping with the generation of heat and which is followed by volume change. This paper explains the factors influencing generation of heat of hydration (cracking) along with the different ways to lower the heat of hydration and then the methods to be implemented for its reduction