Effect of curing on the near-surface layer concrete properties

Curing materials, application technology, and their effects on concrete properties, especially on the surface-layer concrete properties, were studied. Three curing compounds were selected and applied to concrete (mortars and pastes) at different times after casting. Two application methods, single and double layer applications, were employed. Moisture content, conductivity, sorptivity, and degree of hydration were measured at different depths of the specimens. The research results not only evaluate effectiveness of curing compounds and application techniques but also provide insight onto development of test methods for characterization of the surface concrete properties.