spall

American  

[spawl] / spɔl /

noun

1. a chip or splinter, as of stone or ore.

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verb (used with object)

1. to break into smaller pieces, as ore; split or chip.

verb (used without object)

1. to break or split off in chips or bits.

spall British  

/ spɔːl /

noun

1. a splinter or chip of ore, rock, or stone

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verb

1. to split or cause to split into such fragments

Other Word Forms

• nonspalling adjective
• spaller noun

Etymology

Origin of spall

1750–60; origin uncertain; compare late Middle English spalle a chip

Example Sentences

Even if they are not breached, they can spall, and you can have concrete falling down onto the reactor vessel.

From Scientific American

He also found cracks and spalls throughout the structure and signs of moisture intrusion, as well as corroded rebar.

From Fox News

There was "abundant" cracking and spalls in the concrete columns in the parking garage, beams and walls, according to the report.

From Fox News

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources says work on the pillboxes involved concrete spall repair and replacement of rusted steel roof supports.

From Washington Times

“It resists the tendency to split, flake, chip or spall, even under extreme temperatures. For these reasons, it lends itself perfectly to the processes of sculptural carving,” according to the Mid-Atlantic Masonry Heat web site.

From Washington Times