Influence of Curing Conditions on Transport Properties of Blended Cement Concrete

Abstract

Concrete curing is an essential stage in construction in order to obtain an adequate degree of hydration of cement. Frequently, this step is not carried out correctly, but an adequate structure performance depends to a great extent on curing. Today, blended cement concrete (BCC) is used widely in Argentina, despite the lack of long-standing BCC structures constructed to demonstrate adequate service-life performance. In this paper, the modification of BCC pore structure due to curing treatment is analyzed by evaluation of transport properties in concretes with different w/c and maximum coarse aggregate size. To simulate diverse weather conditions to which the same concrete type may be exposed according to geographical location, different curing conditions were applied during 28 consecutive days. Transport properties evaluated were water permeability under pressure, capillary suction, and chloride ingress rate. Total porosity and 24-h water absorption were also determined. According to the results obtained, a notable influence of curing conditions on the pore structure of BCC was observed, emphasizing the importance of a proper curing on the service life of BCC structures.