ABSTRACT
One aspect of concrete production which is often badly executed and sometimes completely omitted, is the curing process. The chemical action of hydration must be allowed to continue uninterrupted during the stiffening and hardening processes, as the products of hydration are essential to the development of strength and the establishment of an impermeable, durable matrix. During hydration, strains are set up as a result of shrinkage of the matrix and it is most important that the crystal growth resulting from hydration should contribute to the strength sufficiently to ensure resistance to cracking and in some circumstances, such as slender sections and thin slabs, to avoid distortion of the member. Surfaces which are allowed to dry too quickly may be liable to dusting in use. If concrete temperatures are allowed to fall below freezing, expansion of the water in the mix may cause damage. Curing involves both retention of moisture and maintenance of concrete temperature.
