DOI

10.5703/1288284313251

Abstract

In this study, the results of both laboratory studies and a field study, conducted to evaluate the effects of different curing conditions on the strength properties and maturity development of pavement concrete, are presented. Further, a laboratory study was performed to evaluate the maturity concept in relation to the degree of hydration of cement. Concrete specimens, beams and cylinders, were prepared in the field study. The specimens in the field were cured in one of four curing conditions: lime bath, sandpit, air, or by temperature match curing. Specimens were tested for flexural strength and compressive strength, respectively. The temperature of the specimens was recorded and maturity calculated for specimens as well as for the pavement in the field study. The results indicate that there is no difference between the maturity development of beam and cylinder specimens. Also, Curing of specimens in lime bath and in the sandpit produced specimens with similar flexural strengths. Further, specimens cured in the sandpit most closely match the maturity development in the pavement. Beams and cylinders were also made in the laboratory studies. Specimens were cured using temperature match curing. The technique was able to accurately replicate the maturity development in the pavement. Paste cubes were prepared and samples of hardened paste were taken to determine the degree of hydration at different ages (by determination of non-evaporable water). While the specimens were cured (in either lime bath, sandpit, or air) the temperature of the specimens was recorded and the maturity of the specimens was subsequently determined. The study indicated that a good correlation exists between the maturity development of cement paste and the degree of hydration of cement. This correlation was valid only if sufficient moisture was available for continuous hydration of the specimens. The maturity development of the cement paste was also found to be similar to the maturity development of the concrete.

Report Number

FHWA/IN/JTRP-2001/23

Keywords

hydration, temperature match curing, curing, strength, maturity, pavement, concrete, SPR-2320

SPR Number

2320

Project Number

C-36-61O

File Number

5-14-15

Performing Organization

Joint Transportation Research Program

Publisher Place

West Lafayette, IN

Date of this Version

2002

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