Curing Methods for Mass Concrete:

Mass concrete is a large volume cast-in-place concrete construction such as

heavy footings, dams, piers, abutments and similar massive construction. The
heat generated due to hydration process in these constructions are very high
and require the proper heat control arrangements to control the cracking and
volume change.

The effect of temperature rise is very high in case of high strength and high
cementitious concrete. The recommendations for control of heat in mass
concrete can be found in ACI 207.1R and ACI 207.2R.

The curing of mass concrete in horizontal or sloping surfaces can be done by

keeping it continuously wet by spraying of water, by using wet sand or by
using the water-saturated fabrics. For vertical surfaces water must be allowed
to rundown from top to bottom inside the form by loosening the ties of top
formwork. Immediately after striking of forms, these concrete surfaces can be
covered with water-saturated fabrics or can be kept wet by continuous spray
of water.

The difference in temperature between the inside of concrete and water

should not be more than 110C. The difference more than this may induce
temperature stress in concrete. The care must be taken during cold weather
conditions. The liquid membrane forming can be used during cold weather
conditions.