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Autogenous Strain of Cement Paste and Mortar.

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Evaluation of Early-Age Volume Changes Without Moisture Loss

Autogenous Strain of Cement Paste and Mortar, In structural engineering, Autogenous Strain (often called autogenous shrinkage) is the "self-created" internal deformation of cement paste or mortar that occurs as it hardens, without any loss of moisture to the environment. While standard "drying shrinkage" is caused by water evaporating into the air, autogenous strain happens internally due to the chemical consumption of water during hydration. It is particularly dangerous in High-Performance Concrete (HPC) because it occurs early and can cause cracks before the concrete is even fully strong. At Global Lab, we conduct Autogenous Strain of Cement Paste and Mortar testing conforms to ASTM C 1698 standard.

Why ASCPMMatters.

Understanding Early-Age Shrinkage Behavior

Autogenous strain develops during early hydration as internal water is consumed by chemical reactions. This test quantifies early-age deformation not influenced by drying, providing insight into intrinsic material behavior. High-Strength Concrete (HSC) Risk: Traditional concrete (high w/c) has excess water, so autogenous strain is negligible. However, in High-Strength or Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC), autogenous shrinkage can be significant, sometimes exceeding 1000 microstrains, leading to sudden “early-age” cracking.

Critical for Low Water–Cement Ratio and High-Performance Mixes

High-performance concretes, cement pastes, and mortars with low water–cement ratios are particularly susceptible to autogenous shrinkage. Measuring this strain is essential for evaluating cracking risk in dense, high-strength mixes commonly used in modern construction.

Prevention of Early-Age Cracking and Durability Loss

Uncontrolled autogenous strain can generate tensile stresses that exceed the early tensile strength of cementitious materials, leading to microcracking. Early cracks reduce durability by increasing permeability and accelerating long-term deterioration, making this test vital for durability-focused design.

Optimization of Mix Design and Material Selection

The test supports comparative evaluation of cement types, supplementary cementitious materials, admixtures, and curing strategies. By understanding autogenous strain behavior, engineers can modify mix designs to reduce shrinkage and improve long-term structural performance.

NDT TESTING

GL Advantages.

Accredited Facility: NABL-accredited laboratory with traceable calibration and stringent Quality System procedures.

Compliance with Standards: Tests conducted in accordance with relevant IS/ASTM/RILEM/EN standards.

Experienced Personnel: Technologists and experts who interpret results and recommend mitigation strategies.

Rapid and Reliable Reporting: Valid reports that comply with relevant standards.

Testing Capabilities: Lab and on-site testing, along with post-test consulting services.

Global Lab Advantage.

Accredited facility.
Standards compliance.
Experienced analysts.
Fast, reliable reporting.
Field + Lab capability.

Applications

Performance evaluation of cement paste and mortar mixes with low water–cement ratios.
Assessment of early-age cracking potential in high-performance and high-strength concretes.
Comparative studies of cement types, SCMs, and chemical admixtures.
Research and quality control for durability-driven concrete design.
Support for crack control strategies in restrained structural elements.

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Autogenous Strain of Cement Paste and Mortar

Autogenous Strain of Cement Paste and Mortar

Autogenous Strain of Cement Paste and Mortar

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Global Lab provides comprehensive testing for construction and engineering materials, including concrete, cement, steel, aggregates, bitumen, soil, tiles, paver blocks, and other civil and infrastructure materials. We also handle customized tests as per client or project specifications.

Yes. Our team is equipped with mobile testing facilities and field instruments for on-site sampling, inspection, and testing — ensuring quick and reliable results without disrupting your project timelines.