Mechanical Properties

Prediction of cracking by autogenous, drying shrinkage and thermal strain requires the knowledge of the development of mechanical properties. The main objective of this chapter is to describe the evolution of the mechanical properties, i.e., elastic properties, strengths, shrinkage, and creep, in cement-based materials. Mechanisms and experimental evidences are given thereafter. The influence of mix design, aging, stress level, cracking, etc., is reported. However, evolution of properties regarding interfaces in the case of prestress concrete, for instance, is not discussed (bond behavior). This chapter has strong interactions with the other chapters regarding the modeling (Chap. 2: hydration, Chap. 3: thermal strain, and Chap. 7: shrinkage, creep and cracking).