Cracking attributed to overloads

Cracking attributed to overloads is caused either by inadequate design (failure to predict the loads going to be applied) or by construction not conforming to the specification with respect to the early stages of handling and the concrete gaining stiffness. 

For inadequate design (under-designed structure), the typical time for cracking to appear is after some years, depending on the original design life assumed. 

For not conforming to the specifications with regard to handling, cracking will appear very early. A typical case for this type of cracking can be seen in pre-cast members when they are not properly supported during transportation, lifting or erection. 

However, cracking attributed to overloads can appear on cast-in-place concrete, such as pavement slabs. When the concrete has not gained its sufficient strength and the pavement is opened to traffic, the stresses imposed are most likely to cause cracking. 

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Fatigue crack propagation in polymers are known to be retarded by large overloads under certain circumstances This has been attributed to crack tip... 

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