Thermal deformation of loaded concrete at low temperatures, 2: Transverse deformation

Abstract Transverse thermal deformation of concrete cylinders has been measured during a thermal cycle, up to −90°C. Oven dry concrete shows an almost linear, reversible and isotropic behaviour. Load-free water-saturated concrete exhibits a complex strain behaviour, characterized by dilatation during cooling (from −10°C to −60°C) and an irreversible expansion after reheating. Longitudinal loading (15 MPa) enhances the aforementioned behaviour. A qualitative explanation of such effects is outlined.