Improving the Performance of Concrete with Internal Curing (Part 3)-Mechanical and Transport Properties (Recorded Presentation)

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The fourth module on internal curing focuses on the mechanical and transport properties of internally cured concrete. Internal curing is a process where moisture is maintained through the mixture, improving hydration and concrete properties. This module reviewed internal curing practices, emphasizing its influence on mechanical properties such as strength, modulus, density, and volume change, and explored the durability aspects including transport properties, freeze-thaw resistance, and corrosion protection.<br /><br />Internal curing involves using lightweight aggregates that contain water, which gradually releases moisture to enhance cement and supplementary material hydration. The process is crucial because hydration reduces concrete porosity, thus enhancing strength and reducing ion transport. Proper sample conditioning, such as maintaining adequate moisture, is necessary to achieve accurate testing results. While lightweight aggregate may lower concrete strength slightly due to its porous nature, the improved hydration often results in comparable or even superior strength.<br /><br />Durability studies highlight that internally cured concretes show diminished water absorption and chloride ion penetration while resisting cracking from shrinkage. Reductions in cracking increase concrete service life by minimizing ion ingress pathways. Internally cured concrete typically exhibits lower elastic modulus, which is beneficial in reducing microcracking and improving tensile properties in restrained conditions. Additionally, the module notes improved responses to alkali-silica reactions and sulfate attack due to better porosity management and expanded gel accommodation.<br /><br />Incorporating internal curing into infrastructure, such as bridge decks, demonstrated comparable or improved performance regarding transport properties and crack resistance, highlighting its potential to enhance durability and extend concrete service life.

Keywords

internal curing

mechanical properties

transport properties

hydration

lightweight aggregates

durability

freeze-thaw resistance

corrosion protection

porosity

crack resistance

infrastructure