4. Conclusion

Shrinkage cracking is a complex phenomenon involving a number of factors (materials, workmanship, mechanical, thermal and hydric boundary conditions). A great deal of international research is currently being carried out on the subject. Cracking is often seen as unpredictable (in the sense that, on site, it seems to appear at random). While cracking generally has no major structural consequences, it does impact on the aesthetics, durability and watertightness (when required) of the structure, even before it bears any operating loads! Injection of cracks is often undertaken, whereas prior consideration of the material and constructional measures can limit the risk of cracking.

The main difficulty in dealing with interfered shrinkage cracking is probably linked to the fact that it is little taught in engineering schools and universities, and there are no scientific...