A new creep test method for reinforced concrete tension members under constant loading

Abstract

This paper reports the experimental study on creep behaviour of reinforced concrete (RC) tension members subjected to long-term constant loading. An innovative testing rig was designed and four replicates were fabricated for concurrent testing of multiple specimens under the same temperature and humidity conditions. Four direct tension specimens were produced and tested under sustained loading up to beyond 300 days. The test results indicated the augmentation of deformation due to concrete creep in RC member. The creep strain of specimens became practically steady after 300 days, and the creep half-time was obtained as approximately two weeks.