Effects of Curing Compound on Concrete

Effects of Curing Compound on Concrete

Author Name : Amit, V. K. Ahuja

ABSTRCT  Advancements in construction and chemical industry have paved a way for development of new curing techniques. Significant amount of research has been conducted to evaluate curing effectiveness and its effect on various concrete properties. The necessity for curing arises from the fact that hydration of cement can take place only in water-filled capillaries. That is why a loss of water by evaporation from the capillaries must be prevented. Evaporation of water from concrete, soon after placing depends on the temperature and relatively humidity of the surrounding air and on the velocity of wind over the surface of the concrete. Curing is essential in the production of concrete to have the desired properties. The strength and durability of concrete will be fully developed only if it is properly cured. The amount of mixing water in the concrete at the time of placement is normally more than required for hydration & that must be retained for curing. However, excessive loss of water by evaporation may reduce the amount of retained water below what necessary for development of desired properties. The potentially harmful effects of evaporation shall be prevented either by applying water or preventing excessive evaporation.