Evaluation of Internal Curing and Hydrophobic Surface Treatment on the Durability of Concrete

The effectiveness of using pre-wetted lightweight aggregate (LWA) for internal curing was investigated based on a laboratory testing program with a primary objective to reduce or mitigate curing related shrinkage (i.e. autogenous), as this could pave the way for using LWA in concrete for repair projects such as bonded overlays or new construction (e.g. JPCP projects). A concern with the use of LWA is the high absorption coefficient and potential negative impact on freeze-thaw resistance. A laboratory study was developed to evaluate compressive strength and key durability properties, such as rapid chloride permeability, RCP, sorptivity, and freeze-thaw (F-T) resistance (i.e. combined resistance to internal cracking and surface scaling in the presence of a 3% salt solution on the surface during repeated F-T cycles). Concrete mix variables were LWA content (25% and 40%). A total of three air-entrained batches were produced. Total cementitious content was 390 kg/m3 (658 lb/yd3) with 30% slag cement. The major findings are: Autogenous shrinkage can be mitigated by using pre-wetted fine LWA at a 25% to 40% volume content of total fine aggregate. Excellent F-T resistance with respect to internal cracking and surface salt scaling was found for LWA contents of 25% or 40%. A silane surface treatment was found partially effective as surface scaling accelerates once a fully saturated pore condition occurs. This suggests that the hydrophobic treatment prevents pressure relief by air-voids and "surface-breathing".