EFFECT OF FREEZING ON THE HARDENING OF STEAM-CURED CONCRETE

Abstract

In the article the hardening circumstances of steam-cured concrete exposed to frost effect is discussed. The 90 days strength of steam-cured concretes which were post-cured under water later at ambient air, or after steam curing were post-cured alternately at -10⁰ C then at +20⁰ C under water was higher than those of hardening under natural circum-stances. The reason is the following: the water cracks the hydrated cover formed during steam curing and so helps the process of hydration.