Incorporation of Perlite and Recycled Aggregates for Internal Concrete Curing

Adequate curing of concrete is a fundamental step in concrete manufacturing to meet performance and durability requirements. Internal curing is a technique that can provide water to concrete for extended durations towards thorough hydration of the cement and reduced cracking. This work addresses potential use of two substitutes of ordinary aggregates for internal curing. Perlite as well as recycled concrete aggregates were incorporated at three dosages each to replace the coarse aggregates. Sets of concrete mixtures were prepared as fully cured in three different techniques: water, applying a curing compound, and with no curing. Fresh concrete and hardened concrete properties were evaluated. Results revealed that the incorporation of prewetted/saturated perlite and recycled aggregates can lead to significant enhancement in concrete workability and durability through reduced shrinkage. An enhancement of concrete strength at various stages was recorded, and recommendations were given for future use of perlite and recycled aggregates.