What is one of the primary causes of spalling in construction materials?

One of the primary causes of spalling in construction materials is excessive high temperatures. When materials such as concrete or masonry are subjected to extreme heat, it can lead to thermal expansion. This expansion may create internal stresses within the material, which can eventually cause surface layers to crack and break off, resulting in spalling.

Spalling is particularly common in structures exposed to fire or high heat sources because the outer layers can heat up significantly faster than the inner layers. As a result, the surface may begin to flake or deteriorate, leading to structural integrity issues. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for ensuring that materials are selected and maintained appropriately in environments where they may be exposed to elevated temperatures.

While other factors, such as humidity, installation practices, and the age of materials, can influence overall material performance, they do not directly lead to the physical breakdown characteristic of spalling as effectively as excessive high temperatures do.