One of life’s fundamental truths is that all concrete cracks with a resultant reduction in macro- and micro adhesion properties. Plastic, elastic, creep, shrinkage and thermal strains all contribute to the development of cracks in concrete members. Although these cracks may affect the adhesion integrity and life expectancy of a concrete structure, cracks are not the main cause of structural failure and degradation but play an important role in the propagation of other degradation processes. As will be shown in this paper there are certain myths about cracking that needs to be addressed. A classification of different non-structural cracks is given and the different causes of cracking and their influence on concrete durability are discussed. Attention is given to micro cracking, the repair of cracked sections and the so-called self-healing process of cracks smaller than 1 mm in width. The effect of crack widths on different durability properties is investigated by performing an intensive literature survey. The authors conclude that by means of appropriate design and detailing techniques, cracks can be limited to acceptable levels in terms of structural integrity and aesthetics.

• Legal notice:
  

  Copyright (c) Pielaszek Research, all rights reserved.
  The above materials, including auxiliary resources, are subject to Publisher's copyright and the Author(s) intellectual rights. Without limiting Author(s) rights under respective Copyright Transfer Agreement, no part of the above documents may be reproduced without the express written permission of Pielaszek Research, the Publisher. Express permission from the Author(s) is required to use the above materials for academic purposes, such as lectures or scientific presentations.
  In every case, proper references including Author(s) name(s) and URL of this webpage: https://science24.com/paper/4044 must be provided.

1. Nano-identification of the bonds between the concrete elements