Speeding up the curing process of concrete can improve construction efficiency and help save some valuable time in a dead-line driven project. Several measures like concreting in warm weather conditions, introducing calcium chloride to wet concrete mixture, covering concrete with plastic sheet, etc. can help increase the rate of the concrete curing process.
These considerations can increase hydration of cement and hence cut down the curing time. Nonetheless, one should be aware of the possible detrimental effects of these measures on concrete properties, which may endanger the structure's safety. Curing of concrete is a process by which concrete is protected against loss of moisture required for hydration and kept within the recommended temperature range.
How to Speed up the Curing Process of Concrete?
- Concreting in a warm environment can increase the speed of the curing process. Sunny weather is desirable because high temperature encourages the curing of concrete.
- Use relatively warm water in the concrete mix to induce reactions. Warm water increases the speed of chemical reactions in concrete. However, one should be aware that overly hot water can have a damaging effect on concrete.
- Blend calcium chloride with wet concrete mix before placement to increase the speed of cement hydration.
- Use water-reducing admixture to reduce the w/c ratio without compromising the workability and strength of concrete. The use of a high quantity of water in the concrete mix can delay the setting of concrete, increasing the time needed for concrete to gain adequate strength.
- Cover recently poured concrete with a plastic sheet to keep the moisture intact within the concrete. This accelerates the curing process.
FAQs
Curing of concrete is a process by which concrete is protected against loss of moisture required for hydration and kept within the recommended temperature range.
Speeding up the curing process of concrete can improve construction efficiency and help save some valuable time in a dead-line driven project.
1. Begin concreting in a hot environment or hot weather.
2. Add calcium chloride to concrete.
3. Cover concrete with plastic sheets.
4. Add water-reducing admixture to the concrete mix.
5. Add warm water to the concrete mix.
The plastic sheet would keep the moisture intact within the concrete and hence encourage and accelerate the curing process.
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