A Self-Learning Manual - Institution of Engineers Mauritius

A Self-Learning Manual
Mastering Different Fields of Civil Engineering Works (VC-Q&A Method) Vincent T. H. CHU
plane of weakness and thus this groove acts a potential crack-inducing
device in which any potential cracks due to shrinkage and thermal
contraction may form. Consequently, the cracks are formed at the base of
the groove and thus it would not cause any unpleasant visual appearance
on the exposed surface of unreinforced concrete pavement.
Fig. Crack formed in unreinforced concrete pavement
Note: For details of concrete profile barriers, reference is made to HyD Standard Drawing
No. H2101A.
3. What is the purpose of reinforcement in concrete roads? (PS1)
The main purposes of reinforcement in concrete roads are [21]:
(i) to control the development and pattern of cracks in concrete pavement.
(ii) to reduce the spacing of joints. In general, joints and reinforcement in
concrete structures are common design measures to cater for thermal
and shrinkage movement. Hence, the inclusion of reinforcement allows
the formation of tiny cracks in concrete pavement and this allows wider
spacing of joints.
In fact, the amount of reinforcement in concrete slab is not substantial and
its contribution to the structural strength of roads is not significant.
Fig. Road reinforcement
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