The application of the principles and techniques of fracture mechanics to cementitions materials allows the civil or structural engineer to investigate and evaluate the durability and behavior of these materials in structural applications. There has been a considerable amount of work carried out over the past decade, as a result of which there is a growing consensus on the insight that fracture mechanics can give towards understanding the behavior of these materials. The authors of this book have made significant contributions to the understanding of fracture processes in cementitious materials and have used their experience to prepare a comprehensive and authoritative account of the subject. The logical presentation of chapters, the inclusion of both experimental and theoretical analysis, the final chapter on applications of the principles in structural design and the extensive references all combine to make this a key sourcebook in the field. Civil, structural and materials engineers interested in fracture mechanics will find this a valuable addition to the literature. It will also be of interest to academic researchers working in the field. Book jacket.