Importance of Curing of Concrete - Part 2- Right time for curing

Date : 2024-02-08

Curing procedures have to be initiated as soon as possible when the concrete surface begins to dry or whenever evaporative conditions become more severe. The curing measures to be used should be anticipated so that the required materials are available on-site and ready to use if needed. Water or curing chemicals, coverings, and application equipment and accessories need to be ready, particularly when harsh environmental conditions may require rapid action. To be effective, sunshades or windbreaks should be erected in advance of concrete placing operations. There are several acceptable ways of maintaining the desired moisture content in concrete. If concrete surfaces are allowed to dry before the concrete hardens, or are allowed to be alternately wet and dry, cracks may appear on the surface. To prevent such cracks, evaporation during finishing and for several days thereafter must be reduced. All materials and equipment needed to prevent early drying and to cure the concrete should be available and ready for use before the concrete arrives. Curing of flatwork should begin immediately after placing and finishing are complete. Warm concrete hardens faster than cold concrete and, during the first few days, gains strength faster than cold concrete. Where temperatures are very cold or high strengths are required quickly, concrete may be heated. To use casting beds more efficiently, precast elements are initially cured using accelerated curing procedures. Accelerated curing is achieved by using saturated steam or dry heat, which requires the concrete member to be sealed to prevent loss of moisture. Avoid overheating elements and cooling them too rapidly because these procedures can cause premature cracking and deterioration of the precast concrete.