2025-01-07

Minimum Reinforcement Area for Crack Width Control

Determined according to EN 1992-1-1

a_{s, \min} = \frac{k_{c} \cdot k \cdot f_{ct, eff} \cdot A_{ct}}{σ_{s}}

k_c	Coefficient for considering the influence of the stress distribution in the cross-section prior to cracking as well as the change of the internal lever arm
k	Coefficient for considering non-uniform self-equilibrating stresses, which lead to the reduction of restraint forces
f_ct,eff	Mean value of the effective tensile strength of the concrete, to be expected when the cracks occur
A_ct	Area of the concrete tension zone (part of the cross-section or partial cross-section that is calculated to be in tension in the uncracked state under the action combination that leads to the formation of the first crack at the gross cross-section)
σ_s	Absolute value of the maximum allowable stress in the reinforcement immediately after crack formation

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