CE 484 HOMEWORK 2

Problem 1:

A normal density concrete has a compressive strength of 50 MPa. A compressive stress is

applied to the concrete. This stress is increased in value from zero to 40 MPa over a short
period of time and is then reduced to 15 MPa.
(i) Calculate the compressive strain in concrete at this point in time.
(ii) The stress is then increased to 45 MPa. Calculate the compressive strain at this point in
time. Finally the stress is reduced to zero.
(iii) Calculate the residual compressive strain that remains in the concrete after the
compressive stress has been removed.

Problem 2:

Normal density concrete columns shown in the figure below were subjected to a compressive
stress of 20 MPa 5 days after casting the concrete. The concrete strength was 50 MPa at 28
days. Estimate the initial strain under the given loading conditions. Also, estimate the strain
at 10 days, 3 months and 3 years after the loading if the average humidity was 70 %.
Comment on your results.
75 cm
60 cm
.
50 cm

60 cm
. 75 cm
50 cm

2m 2m

Column 1 Column 2