ABSTRACT
Characterized by exceptional mechanical and durability properties, ultrahigh-performance concrete (UHPC) offers significant advantages for structural applications. Previous research at New Mexico State University (NMSU) developed nonproprietary UHPC mixture proportions using materials primarily local to New Mexico, USA, and high-strength steel fiber reinforcement. This study investigated the effect of two curing regimens on the time-dependent behavior of three mechanical properties of this UHPC: compressive strength, modulus of rupture (defined as the flexural stress at first-cracking), and modulus of elasticity. To evaluate early-age strength gain, specimens produced using both elevated thermal curing and ambient moist curing were tested in compression and four-point flexure at 24-hour intervals for the first seven days after casting. Beginning at seven days, longer-term behaviors for the three properties were evaluated at increasing intervals up to one year. Results were also used to characterize the interactions of these properties and assess the efficiency of the curing methods.
