PSI - Issue 70

Saravanakumar R. et al. / Procedia Structural Integrity 70 (2025) 319–326

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1. Introduction Self-curing concrete is often made by adding some polymer with pre-wetted particles. It can be achieved by varying the polymer content in the mix for strengthening the concrete [Ole Mejlhede Jensen and Per Freiesleben Hansen, 2001]. Engineers have an understanding of the flow of internal curing and how it affects hydration process, mechanical properties, durability, and cost. Achieving the best characteristic features requires enough water internally accessible when, and where needed to fulfil the concrete's time-dependent hydration requirements [Rayees Ali Khan et.al.2022]. Internal curing (IC) has reduced life cycle costs. Due to ease of use and low cost implementation, internal curing initiatives are becoming more familiar now-a-days. The contractors prefer to construct structures of these type because it prefer low cost and use less water. Internal curing, minimizes autogenous shrinkage. Additional advantages viz. decreased physical, mechanical and long-lasting properties [Saravanakumar et.al.2023]. Curing can be carried out using different techniques shown in Fig. 1.

Fig.1 Types of Curing [Hamza Samouh et.al, 2017]

1.1 Advantages Self-curing concrete reduces shrinkage and prevents micro cracks in the concrete structure; it increases the concrete strength and reduce permeability. Water and other chemicals cannot get trapped in it because of less voids, micro cracks, and permeability. Additionally, certain effects like Sulphur action by atmospheric Sulphur dioxide, leading to crack expansion. These defects can be avoided in self curing concrete results in increased durability. The reinforcing bar can be protected if voids are less. Reduction in the thermal expansion coefficient makes concrete's radiating surfaces less susceptible to volumetric expansion and cracking. Self-curing concrete increases concrete's strength and hardness. 1.2 Application Self-curing concrete is primarily intended for use in mega structures like high rise buildings, bridge works and for shotcrete techniques. Very less water and optimal cement content are used for these types of operations. As a result, there is very less chance for such concrete to develop micro cracks when it hydrates. To minimize the micro cracks, internal Curing is obligatory.