Impact of Curing on Mechanical Properties of Concrete – an Environmental Approach
J. Environ. Nanotechnol., Volume 7, No 4 (2018) pp. 60-64
Abstract
The advancement in the construction industry has resulted in a new way of environmental pollution. These industries produce almost 7% of the worldwide production of total carbon dioxide emissions. Apart from producing carbon dioxide, these industries also consume a tremendous amount of energy and produce dust, heavy metals, hydrogen chloride, hydrogen fluoride, etc., which are hazardous. This paper is aimed at studying the environmental impact of different curing regimes as well as the effects of curing conditions on the durability (permeability, abrasion resistance and sulphate attack) and mechanical properties (compressive strength) of concrete. Improved durability is important for the environmental sustainability of concrete. Curing is mainly intended to keep concrete moist by avoiding moisture removal from the concrete during the strength-building process. Curing generally promotes the hydration of cement as a consequence of which hydrated products fill the pores of the concrete and produces a more compact structure whose permeability is less. As a consequence of reduced permeability, water and other harmful chemicals do not enter the concrete, thus improving its durability. Durable concrete can reduce the total annual concrete production, thus reducing the total environmental pollution caused by the concrete industry. The most appropriate method of curing depends on the site conditions and materials used.
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