Variations in the mechanical properties of concrete subjected to low cyclic loads

This paper analyses the changes occurring in the mechanical properties of concrete subjected to uniaxial compression loading cycles having low intensity and short duration. The concrete was seen to undergo strain hardening and an increase in stiffness due to the effects of dynamic loading, as revealed by an increase in the material's failure load and modulus of elasticity. In poor quality concrete, a shift from ductile to brittle failure was observed.