Answer & Solution
Answer: Option D
Solution:
Option A: Increase in humidity
This is incorrect. An increase in humidity typically reduces the rate of creep in concrete structures. Higher humidity levels help maintain the moisture content in the concrete, which reduces the tendency for deformation over time.
Option B: Increase in water
This is incorrect. While increased water content can affect the initial setting and strength of concrete, it does not directly correlate with an increase in creep. Properly cured concrete with the right water content should not exhibit excessive creep due to water alone.
Option C: Decrease in temperature
This is incorrect. Lower temperatures generally reduce the rate of creep in concrete. At lower temperatures, the concrete's internal structure is more stable, leading to less deformation over time.
Option D: Decrease in humidity
This is correct. A decrease in humidity leads to increased creep in concrete structures. Lower humidity levels cause the concrete to lose moisture, resulting in shrinkage and increased deformation over time. This process exacerbates creep, making it more pronounced in drier conditions.
Conclusion:
Option D is the correct answer because a decrease in humidity leads to an increase in creep in concrete structures. Lower humidity levels cause the concrete to lose moisture, which increases deformation and results in higher creep rates.
