How Does Thermal Expansion Cause Concrete Sidewalks to Buckle?

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The discussion revolves around the thermal expansion of concrete sidewalks and the resulting buckling when no space is provided for expansion. The original poster presents a scenario involving two concrete slabs that expand due to a temperature increase, leading to upward buckling.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are exploring how to determine the vertical displacement caused by the buckling of the slabs. Questions arise regarding the specifics of the expansion and the mechanics of buckling.

Discussion Status

Some participants are seeking clarification on the aspects of the problem, particularly the calculation of vertical displacement. There is a suggestion to assume the slabs maintain their integrity during expansion and to consider the geometry involved in determining how high the slabs must raise.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of specific details regarding the constraints of the problem, such as the exact method for calculating the vertical displacement and the assumptions about the slabs' behavior during expansion.

kamakari
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I'm a little bit confused with this question, can any1 pls help? thanks in advance

A concrete sidewalk is constructed between two buildings on a day when the temperature is 25 degree celsius. The sidewalk is consists of two slabs each 3 meters in length and of negligible thickness. As the temperature rises to 38 degree celsius, the slabs expand but no space is provided for thermal expanson. The building do not move so the slabs buckle upward. determine the vertical displacement of the slabs due to buckling effect.

a=12 x 10^-6 / celsius degree
 
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What part is confusing? The expansion or the buckling?
 
pretty much on how to solve the vertical displacement Y_Y
 
kamakari said:
pretty much on how to solve the vertical displacement Y_Y
Lacking further details, I would just assume that the slabs maintain their integrity as they expand. Assume the far ends don't move, then figure out how high the middle ends must raise up. Use a bit of trig to find the height.
 

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