Curing is all about protecting concrete from loss of moisture by keeping it within a reasonable temperature range. It results in concrete with increased strength and decreased permeability. Curing is important for all concrete, the problem that occurs from not curing are most obvious with horizontal surfaces. An uncured slab whether decorative or plain gray is likely to develop pattern of fine cracks.
Curing concrete properly requires the correct control of moisture and temperature. Concrete may achieve only 50% of its potential design strength. Seven-day curing period rests on two facts:-
- Cement, which is active ingredient in concrete, requires constant moisture to gain strength.
- If concrete is kept moist continuously for seven days, it will gain strength, shrink less and produce fewer cracks.
Curing can be aided in so many ways:-
- Water ponding and spraying moist over concrete
- Coverings like wet burlap, insulating blankets, polyethylene or similar objects
- Spray-on liquid curing agents and sealers
- Leave forms at site
Liquid curing agent is effective and convenient method. The curing agent should be applied soon after finishing is done. Curing forms a membrane on the surface of concrete to retain moisture. You can’t proceed the concrete pouring work once curing agent is applied. Use spray or roller to apply curing agents.
Curing Pavements and Bridge Decks
Curing pavements and bridge requires careful consideration and has significantly different needs with regard to curing. Curing of pavements allows the use of:
- Sheet Curing
- Moist Curing
- Application of a film forming curing compound
Because of large surface areas typical recommendation of concrete paving the application of curing compound is most common method used. Sheet Curing and Moist Curing of large surface area may become cost prohibitive because large amount of materials is required in order to cover full surface of concrete placed in any single day. Moist curing and sheet curing requires maintenance to make sure that curing method is properly completed for the full time duration chosen for paving. Apply curing compounds to pavements as early as possible after bleed water has left the surface of concrete.
If you are a resident of Toronto, then Maple Concrete Pumping is all here to provide you reliable concrete pumping and curing services.
