Curing of Concrete-Curing Procedures

To attain design strength, curing is a crucial part of the cast-in-place concrete process in order that the proper amount of moisture content and ambient temperature be maintained immediately following the placement of the concrete. The optimum curing cycle will take into account the prevention or replenishment of moisture content from the concrete and the maintenance of a favorable temperature for a specific period of time. During winter months, temporary protection and heat is required in conjunction with the curing process, and during summer months, moisture replenishment becomes an integral part of the curing process.

1. Apply a membrane-curing compound-eithe r by spraying or rolling on the surface immediately after the troweling process on slabs has ceased, or on walls, columns, beams, after the forms have been removed.

2. Curing by water in other than cold-weather conditions is acceptable, as long as it is continuous.

3. Waterproof paper, applied directly over the concrete surface after it has received a spray of water, is often effective.

4. Damp burlap, free of foreign substances that could leach out and stain the concrete, is also a proven curing procedure, as long as the burlap is kept moist.

5. Polyethylene sheets can be used as a blanket in much the same manner as waterproof paper, as long as its edges are lapped and sealed properly.

6. Damp sand or straw is also used on occasion, when nothing else is available. These materials must also be sprayed from time to time to maintain the moisture content.

The length of curing depends upon a number of factors, including the type of cement used and am bient temperatures. The following can be used as a guideline to determine the length of curing time.

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