Application of finite difference method to 2D heat conduction in young hydrating mass concretes structures.

Abstract

Finite Difference Method is a numerical approximation scheme usually applied in solving differential equations derived from the knowledge of the behaviour of engineering systems. Due to the unsteady state nature of cement hydration and heat conduction in concretes, Crank Nicholson implicit approach was adopted. Concrete block of size 1.10 m x 1.10 m x 1.10 m, cast with mix ratio 1:3:6, probed thermocouples and digital thermometer were used to verify the numerical computational analysis. The temperature profile depicted a relatively hot core, with peak temperature values occurring at 24 hours of placement. Implicit finite difference method was utilized in determining time dependent temperature profile within mass concretes at early ages. The paper could provide a guide towards proactive decision making in terms of controlling thermal cracks.