Evolution of Crack Control Technology in Reinforced Concrete Side Walls of Near Surface Disposal Facilities

Abstract

The reinforced concrete side walls of underground disposal facilities require suppression of the occurrence of harmful cracks that reduce water-tightness in order to prevent the ingress of rainwater and groundwater and any leaching out. This report presents the findings of a study on the effectiveness of concrete mix proportions improvements and the use of crack control reinforcement for suppressing cracks caused by temperature changes due to the heat of hydration of cement and drying shrinkage, by assessing the various control methods through comparison of the initial predictions and the cracks that occurred in actual structures over a period of twenty years.