Abstract
Anisotropy and heterogeneity characteristics of concrete were investigated by splitting tensile tests on cube or prism specimens. The tensile strengths when the stress was applied in the same direction of casting were lower than those when the stress was applied in the right angle to the direction of casting, and, in the former case those in the top portion were lower than those in the bottom. The direct and main cause of the tensile anisotropy of concrete may be defects under aggregate paticles brought from the instability of fresh concrete, especially bleeding. It may be stated that concrete is recognized as an anisotropic material relative to the casting direction by tensile test.
