Thermal analysis of a thick raft foundation in Abu Dhabi

Thermal cracking of concrete presents a major problem to the construction industry in the Middle East. Some of the factors that contribute to this problem are: the harsh environment in the region with temperatures that rise to values exceeding 45°C and daily and seasonal variations of as much as 30°C, the challenging types of structures built in the region within very tight time scales, the lack of understanding of the significance of thermal cracking and its long-term effects on the integrity of the structure, and the failure to take the necessary precautions into consideration at the design stage and during construction.

This paper presents an investigation of the early thermal behaviour of a thick raft foundation for an 88 storey tower within a new development in Abu Dhabi, UAE. A thermal model was developed for the raft foundation to plan, ahead of construction, the control measures necessary to mitigate the risk of excessive peak temperatures and temperature differentials. In addition, the effect of the following parameters were analysed in the model: summer and early winter ambient conditions during casting, casting sequence, concrete mix design, curing methods and suitable techniques for temperature control.

• Abstract

• Introduction

• Modelling Approach

• Specification Limits

• Assumptions

• Model Results

• Conclusions

• References