ABSTRACT
During the hydration process the concrete develops its mechanical characteristics and is exposed to thermal actions. That may result in stresses, if inner and/or outer restraints exist. If these stresses reach the tensile strength, cracks may occur. Depending on the kind and depth of the cracks, durability will be impaired. In order to control thermal cracking during the hydration, there are structural, technological and constructive methods. Numerical simulations of such aftertreatments become increasingly important. The efficiency of crack-avoiding methods may be checked already during the planning stage.
