“Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION

1.1 Brief history

Curing is the maintenance of a satisfactory moisture content and temperature in concrete

for a period of time immediately following placing and finishing so that the desired
properties may develop. Curing allows continuous hydration of cement and consequently
continuous gain in the strength, once curing stops strength gain of the concrete also stops.
Curing has a strong influence on the properties of hardened concrete; proper curing will
increase the durability, strength, volume stability, abrasion resistance, impermeability and
resistance to freezing and thawing. Evaporation in the initial stage leads to plastic shrinkage
cracking and at the final stage of setting it leads to drying shrinkage cracking Curing
techniques and curing duration significantly affects curing efficiency. Membrane-forming
compounds used in situations when concrete works are carried out in the places where there
is acute shortage of water and the application of water for water curing is not possible for
reasons of economy. They are the most practical and most widely used method for curing
not only freshly placed concrete but also for extending curing of concrete after removal of
forms or after initial moist curing.

1.2 Objectives:-

1. To mitigate the shrinkage of concrete.

2. To enhance desirable properties of concrete such as impermeably, strength, durability, etc.
3. To maintain desired temperature for the hydration of reaction of a concrete.
4. To maintain the required moisture content for the complete hydration process of concrete.
5. To prevent untimely or Pre-mature drying out of concrete due to wind, sun, etc.

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 1|Page

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

CHAPTER 2 - LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Paper Survey:-

DUDHAL PRASHANT DNYANOBA, RAUT HEMANT MADHUKAR :- In literature review

we have studied that concrete curing is also done by not only the conventional water curing but also
various methods. The article we have studied that due to lack of water for curing and we know that
curing is most important part of the concrete because whenever curing is done then the strength of
concrete and also life the concrete is done properly. But now a days due to lack of water the different
methods are used for curing of concrete and also in this report we have to studied the “Concrete
curing by Different Methods”.

Princy K.P :- This study considered the effectiveness of various curing methods on the properties of
concrete. Curing has a strong influence on the properties of hardened concrete. The parameter of the
study includes various curing period and various curing methods [Dry curing, Immersion technique,
Liquid membrane curing compound, water proofing compound.

Prasad. S.P. :- Curing of concrete is one of the most important factors in concrete construction as it
is related to properties such as characteristic strength, permeability, durability, etc. Further, it is
required to do the curing at the right time and a sufficient period of curing is very important to
achieve the exact properties of concrete.

Shaikh A.S., Lahare P.S, Nagpure V.B., Ghorpde S.S. :- Efficient uninterrupted curing is the key
to quality concrete. Proper curing of concrete is crucial to obtain design strength and maximum
durability. The curing period depends on the required properties of concrete, the purpose for which it
is to be used, and the surrounding atmosphere namely temperature and relative humidity. Curing is
designed mainly to keep the concrete moist, by preventing the loss of moisture from the concrete
during the period in which it is gaining strength. Curing may be applied in a number of ways and the
most appropriate means of curing may be dictated by the site or the construction method. The present
paper is directed to elaborate effectiveness of different curing methods and study the influence of
climate on the strength properties of concrete.

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 2|Page

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

CHAPTER 3 - METHODOLOGY

3.1 Concrete Curing :-

Concrete gets hardened gradually by the exothermic reaction, which generates heat, and the
moisture present in the concrete gets lost in this hydration process. Curing helps to prevent this
moisture loss and also enhances the hydration process, to achieve an early gain in the required
strength. In short, we can define curing as the process of providing protection for the concrete from
internal moisture loss, and also accelerating the hydration reaction to reach the required strength in a
shorter period.
3.2 Curing Period on Durability of Concrete :-The curing of the concrete is very important due to
the following reasons.

 It is a process of controlling the moisture in the surface of the concrete. Creates dense
microstructure and Improve the permeability.
 Prolong curing enhance the durability.
 Proper curing improve the surface hardness and concrete can withstand surface wear and
abrasion.
 Improvement of the permeability due to the adequate curing avoids the entering water-borne
chemicals. Increase the durability and life span of the concrete structure.

The above figure clearly evident that the curing will affect the strength of the concrete and
eventually it affects the strength durability of concrete. Now let us observe, the different time
periods needed by the concrete to attain the specific strength.

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 3|Page

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

 In 3-7 days                 50% of the design strength.

 In 12 -14 days            75% of the design strength.
 After 28 days              90% of the final strength
3.3 Factors affecting on curing of concrete :-
The different factors which affect the curing period are,
1. Type of the curing method adopted.
2. Grade and the type of cement used.
3. Atmospheric temperature and climatic conditions.
4. Shape and size of the structural member.
5. Grade of concrete.
6. Type of the structural member and its location ( exposure to the direct sunlight ).
3.4 Technique of curing of concrete :-

Many factors affect the rate at which water evaporates from freshly placed concrete. This includes air
temperature, humidity, concrete temperature, and wind speed. As a result, many techniques have
been developed to help concrete retain moisture at the early ages. These methods are used to:

 Maintain the presence of water in the concrete during the early hardening period,
 Reduce the loss of water from the surface of the concrete, and
 Accelerate concrete strength gain by supplying heat and additional moisture.

The method (or combination of methods) chosen depends on factors such as availability of curing
materials, size, shape, and age of concrete, production facilities (in place or in a plant), aesthetic
appearance, and economics. As a result, curing often involves a series of procedures used at a
particular time as the concrete ages. The timing of each procedure depends on the degree of
hardening of the concrete needed to prevent the procedure from damaging the concrete surface.

3.4.1)Water curing :-

The application of the water is done to avoid the drying of the concrete surface. Usually, this method
applies when the concrete is thinner. For example, in building construction, the curing of the floor
slab can be done with this method. There are two methods to apply the water on concrete.

1. Ponding the concrete

2. Use sprinklers to spread water continuously

1.Ponding the Concrete :- Continuously wetting the concrete surface is done in the method without
allowing the concrete surface to dry. Most of the time, a kerb cast around the slab helps to pond the
relevant area.

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 4|Page

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

This method is very useful in dry environments as it is not required to pour the water continuously.
All the flat surfaces such as road pavements, slabs, footpaths, etc can cure with this method easily.

2.Use of Sprinklers :-

It is a must not allowing the concrete surface getting dry due to the evaporation. Continuous spraying
the water at a constant rate and uniformly is a must to fulfill the adequate curing.Sprinklers set at
adequate spacing will be used for this purpose.

As indicated in the above figure, moisture level will not reduce from the required level, and this is a
very easy method as it does not require lots of involvement like hand curing (cure manually).

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 5|Page

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

3.4.2)Wet covering :-

Wet curing is a method of maintaining the surface moisture level by placing materials like hessian.
Use of gunnery bae is also common.

These covering shall place on the concrete surface when it hardens enough to work to please covers.
Further, the drying of the concrete surface shall not be allowed due to any reason.

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 6|Page

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

The methods discussed under the title water curing can only be used to cure the horizontal surfaces.
Vertical surfaces in concrete columns, walls, etc. can cure with this method as indicated in the
following figure.

3.4.3) Formwork Curing :-

Formwork is the most effective curing agent in the construction. Especially in thick concretes where
the hydration temperature is high, this method is used. Further, not cost involved as the cost is
already covered under the formwork. The only concern is keeping the formwork a bit longer than
usual. When the risk of cracking is becoming an issue in large concrete due to the variations in the

surface of the concrete, formwork curing provides more safety. Further, when the transmission of the
heat in thick concretes are becoming an issue, formwork curing is used as an alternative. Depending
on the heat, peak temperature, temperature gradient and temperature different the thickness of the
formwork can be finalized

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 7|Page

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

In column curing, it is required to keep the formwork longer duration than the usual. Therefore, there
may be an additional cost to the project.

3.4.4) Membrane curing :-

A membrane is formed on the concrete surface to avoid the evaporation of the moisture in the
concrete. Liquid form material is sprayed over the concrete surface and it solidifies and forms a
membrane. These materials can apply with brushed or roller. There are two types of membranes.

 Water-based
 Oil-based

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 8|Page

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

The water-based curing membranes are more popular than the oil base as it can be washed off with
water after the curing period, and additional effort is required to remove the oil-based membranes.
Acid-etched, sandblasting or chipping is required to remove the oil base membranes.

3.4.5) Sheet curing :-

There are three types of the sheet used for curing

 Polythene Sheet
 Plastic Sheet
 Curing Blankets
This three type of the sheet are sued to cure the flat surfaces usually. Polythene sheets are sued to
cover the concrete slabs and columns. The sheet can be placed on the slab just after it gets hardened.

Shelter areas are also created by using the polythenes in addition to applying them to the concrete. It
allows the concrete to dry naturally. Special occasions less evaporation and concrete not that
structurally important, this method can be used.

Plastic sheets also can be used to cover the concrete. These sheets are sued to cover the flat surfaces.
It is a watertight and less weight material. In addition, it is easy to handle.

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 9|Page

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

In addition, curing blankets are used as protection to the newly placed concrete. It does the same
thing as another type of sheet. No evaporation of moisture from the concrete surface will exist.

3.4.6) Curing by absorbing heat (Pipe water cooling) :-

Pipes are set inside the concrete to absorb the heat. Water is circulated in the concrete and it absorbs
the heat of in the concrete.

Especially for thick concrete and when a higher grade of concrete is used for construction, this
method is more suitable. It reduces the core temperature.

However, these methods shall be used with much care as the sudden change in the temperature could
cause cracking in the concrete.

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 10 | P a g e

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

Continuous monitoring of the temperature of the water provides an idea about the internal
temperature. Base on the observations, the flow rate can be adjusted.

3.4.7) Hot mixing method :-

An increase in the temperature of the concrete is done to enhance the strength of the concrete.

Rising the temperature of the concrete up to 320C could enhance the strength by 10% – 20%.

Since the concrete gets the strength early, this method can use in a situation where it is required early
strength. Further, the formwork can be removed early with the gain of the strength of early.

There are several methods that can be sued to increase the temperature of the concrete

 Increase the temperature of aggregate by heating

 Heat the water
 Inject steam into the concrete mix

In this method, special formwork shall be used and the formwork shall also be used. This method is
not typically used and it can be used on special occasions.

3.4.8) Electrical Curing :-

There are three methods in electrical curing.

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 11 | P a g e

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

 Electrical current passes through the freshly laid concrete between two external fix
electrodes. The alternate current shall be passed through the concrete.
 A high current having low voltage passing through the reinforcement net.
 Large electric blankets are utilized for the purpose of heating the slab surfaces.

3.4.9) Infra-red Curing :-

This is not a very common method and it is not widely used.

Heating of the formwork or circulating hot water inside the concrete is done.

3.4.10) Covering with Saw dust, Sand or Soil :-

This method can be employed especially in thick concrete and that has not large surface area.

Concrete surface ins pile caps, pours of raft foundations, etc. can be covered with sand, sawdust, and
soil.

A membrane is placed over the concrete and sand is placed above that.

It controls the variation of the surface concrete.

3.4.11) Natural Curing :-

Concrete is allowed to cure naturally without covering anything.

In environments where the evaporation is very less and no high heat to harm the concrete, concrete
can be allowed to cure naturally.

This could mainly be done for structural elements that do not have much importance. However,
structurally important elements could not be cured using this method.

Higher the rate of the evaporation, the higher the risk of cracking of the concrete. Further, the
variation of the surface temperature with the time causes cracking of the concrete.
In addition, the moisture required for the hydration process is not adequate. It causes the reduction of
the strength of the concrete and the same can be identified as a factor affecting the durability of
concrete.

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 12 | P a g e

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

CHAPTER - 4

ADVANTAGES, DISADWANTAGES & APPLICATION

4.1 Advantages:-

1. Curing develop strength and hardness in hardened concrete.

2. The concrete maintenance it’s performance ability and durability.

3. It provides more resistant to abrasion of the surface of the concrete.

4. The micro-structure of the concrete is improved due to curing process.

5. It makes concrete more resistive towards crack, vegetale growth, chemical

attacks, etc.

6. To mitigate the shrinkage of concrete.

7. To enhance desirable properties of concrete such as impermeably, strength, durability, etc.
8. To maintain desired temperature for the hydration of reaction of a concrete.
9. To maintain the required moisture content for the complete hydration process of concrete.
10. To prevent untimely or Pre-mature drying out of concrete due to wind, sun, etc.
4.2 Disadvantages:-

1. Sprinkler Curing :-

 This method requires huge amount of water, so it is a bit costly.

2. Ponding method :-

 Ponding method cannot be used in vertical surface.

 Again, this method requires good amount of water.
 After concrete curing is finished, it is difficult to clean the surface.

3. Membrane curing :-
 Concrete strength is reduced.
 Membrane curing method is costly as wax emulsion, bitumen emulsion
etc is used.
4. Steam curing :-

 Steam curing method cannot be applied in large surface.

 It is costly as curing is done in temperature above 22°C.

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 13 | P a g e

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

5. Sealed curing :-

 Rarely used.
 Costly method as it requires water resistant paper, plastic sheets etc.

4.3 Applications:-

1. Mitigate the shrinkage of concrete.

2. Enhance desirable properties of concrete such as impermeably, strength, durability,

etc.

3. Maintain desired temperature for the hydration of reaction of a concrete.

4. Maintain the required moisture content for the complete hydration process of
concrete.

5. Prevent untimely or Pre-mature drying out of concrete due to wind, sun, etc.

6. Maintenance it’s performance ability and durability.

7. Makes concrete more resistive towards crack, vegetale growth, chemical attacks, etc.

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 14 | P a g e

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

CHAPTER 5 - FUTURE SCOPE

Future Scope :-
We can minimize the curing period by choosing the appropriate method to cure the
concrete.

We can increases the Durability, accessibility also micro-structure of concrete by choosing

the appropriate method for curing of concrete.

We can save the Labour and Water cost required for curing of concrete by choosing the
appropriate method as per the site condition.

We can make concrete more resistive towards crack, vegetale growth, chemical attacks, etc
by choosing the appropriate method to cure concrete.

As we know that conventional curing is done by the Water only the method is only used is
conventional Water curing by ponding method but now a days the Rainfall intensity goes
decreasing that’s why the that Techniques are used for concrete curing. Whenever the
Water is not available so easily and we want the more Strength as early as possible then
these techniques are More suitable than the water curing method.

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 15 | P a g e

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

CHAPTER 6 – CONCULISION

1. It is false economy to neglect the correct curing program for all concrete items produced
either on site or in factory processes.
2. Most pre-cast concrete producers employ some sort of curing system that is appropriate
to their production regime.

3. Most reinforced concrete constructors pay scant regard to this critical step in realising
the full potential of a ‘designed’ concrete and therefore compromise the design of the
structure under construction.”

4. It is a fairly simple exercise to determine the correct selection of curing system needed
for a particular application. However, it is a far easier selection to choose to cure a
concrete structure or not.

5. Cured Concrete = Quality Concrete.

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 16 | P a g e

 “Various Curing Methods Of Concrete”

CHAPTER 7 -REFERENCES

References:- Proceedings
Papers:-
[1] Prof. Nanak J Pamnani, Dr. A.K. Verma, Dr. D.R. Bhatt,“Comparison of compressive
strength of medium strength compacted concrete by different curing techniques”, IJETT,
vol 4, pg 1451-1457, May 2013.

Journal papers:-
[2] R Kholia “Effect On Concrete By Different Curing Method And Efficiency Of Curing
Compounds – A Review” IJAET/Vol. IV/ Issue II/April-June, 2013.

[3] Ktftng Tan “Performance Of Concrete Under Different Curing Conditions” Vol. 26
Elsevicr Science Ltd

Books:-
Jain Indrajeet “CONCRET TECHNOLOGY (Kindle edition) Techneo Publications.

Websites:-
www.irjet.net
www.researchgate.net
www.semanticscholar.or
g www.ijrter.com
www.acadpubl.eu
www.ijemr.net

Amrutvahini Collage Of Engineering, Sangamner 17 | P a g e