Concrete grades are denoted by M10, M20, M30, according to their

compressive strength. The “M” denotes Mix design of concrete followed by

the compressive strength number in N/mm2, “Mix” is the respective ingredient
proportions which are Cement: Sand: Aggregate Or Cement: Fine Aggregate:
Coarse Aggregate.
The ability of the concrete withstand in pulling force (Tensile Stress) without broke is calledTensile
Strength of concrete. The tensile strength of concrete is measured by the units of Force per
Cross Sectional area (N/Sqmm or Mpa). Theconcrete is good in compression force and weak in
tension force.

Creep Definition
Concrete creep is defined as: deformation of structure under sustained load. Basically, long term
pressure or stress on concrete can make it change shape. This deformation usually occurs in the
direction the force is being applied. Like aconcrete column getting more compressed, or a beam
bending.

Concrete is subjected to changes in volume either autogenous or induced. Volume

change is one of the most detrimental properties of concrete, which affects the long-term
strength and durability. To the practical engineer, the aspect of volume change in
concrete is important from the point of view that it causes unsightly cracks in concrete
and called concrete shrinkage.

Concrete Shrinkage is the change in length per unit length and is, therefore, a dimensional
number expressed as percent.

Reinforced concrete is a composite material that is characterized by the

combination of the high compressive strength of Portland cement concrete,
and the ductility and high tensile strength properties of steel, which make it an
ideal construction material (Bertolini et al., 2004).