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Curing
Curing is the process of controlling the rate and extent of moisture loss from concrete during ce-
ment hydration.
Why should concrete be cured?
Curing is essential to the achievement of good quality concrete. It is a simple process. The pur-
pose of curing is to ensure that the concrete does not dry out prematurely, but retains moisture
so that it will build up strength and gain durability and resistance to wear.
The concrete should be kept continuously damp for at least 7 days to achieve satisfactory curing.
The easiest method is to cover the concrete with plastic sheeting immediately after finishing.
Alternatively, a commercially produced curing compound may be sprayed, brushed or rolled onto
the surface.
CURING METHODS
General
Methods of curing concrete fall broadly into the following categories:
Those that minimize moisture loss from the concrete, for example by covering it with a rela-
tively impermeable membrane.
Those that prevent moisture loss by continuously wetting the exposed surface of the concrete.
Those that keep the surface moist and, at the same time, raise the temperature of the con-
crete, thereby increasing the rate of strength gain. This method is typically used for precast
concrete products and is outside the scope of this data sheet
Impermeable-membrane Curing
1.Formwork: Leaving formwork in place is often an efficient and cost-effective method of curing
concrete, particularly during its early stages.
2.Plastic sheeting Plastic sheets, or other similar material, form an effective barrier against water
loss, provided they are kept securely in place and are protected from damage.
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