Concrete long-term deflection, also known as creep and shrinkage, is dependent on several factors.

Creep refers to the gradual deformation or settlement of concrete under sustained load over time,
while shrinkage is the contraction of concrete as it loses moisture. These factors can influence the
long-term deflection of concrete structures:

Material Properties:

Concrete Mix: The composition of the concrete mix, including the type of cement, aggregates,
water-cement ratio, and admixtures, can affect creep and shrinkage. Different types of cement have
varying creep and shrinkage characteristics.

Aggregate Type: The type and properties of aggregates used in the concrete mix can influence its
long-term behavior.

Moisture Conditions:

Relative Humidity: The ambient relative humidity can impact shrinkage. Dryer conditions can lead to
greater shrinkage.

Curing: Proper curing of concrete is crucial to minimize shrinkage. Inadequate curing can lead to
higher shrinkage and, consequently, increased long-term deflection.

Temperature:

Concrete Temperature: The temperature during casting and curing can affect creep and shrinkage.
Hotter temperatures can lead to increased shrinkage, while lower temperatures can slow down the
hydration process, affecting creep.

Load Duration:

Sustained Loads: The magnitude and duration of the applied loads play a significant role in creep.
Higher sustained loads can result in more significant long-term deflection.

Age of Concrete:

Concrete Age: Concrete experiences higher creep and shrinkage when it's relatively young. As
concrete ages, its rate of deformation decreases.

Structural Geometry:

Sectional Dimensions: The dimensions and shape of the concrete member, such as its thickness and
span, can influence long-term deflection.

Reinforcement:
Reinforcement Type: The type and arrangement of reinforcement within the concrete can affect its
long-term behavior. For instance, the use of prestressed or post-tensioned reinforcement can
reduce long-term deflection.

Environmental Conditions:

Exposure Conditions: Environmental factors like exposure to aggressive chemicals or freeze-thaw

cycles can accelerate or exacerbate creep and shrinkage.

Construction Practices:

Quality of Workmanship: Proper construction practices, including consolidation of concrete,

formwork, and curing methods, can help minimize long-term deflection.

Design Parameters:

Load Factors: The load factors used in the structural design, including safety factors, can impact the
predicted long-term deflection.

Engineers and architects consider these factors when designing concrete structures to ensure that
long-term deflection is within acceptable limits for the intended use of the building or infrastructure.
Additionally, predictive models and standards are used to estimate and account for creep and
shrinkage in structural design.