Performance and microstructure characteristics of self-curing self-compacting concrete

The role of hydrophilic (polyethylene glycol) and hydrophobic (light liquid paraffin wax) chemicals as self-curing compounds to improve the curing efficiency of self-compacting concrete (SCC) was investigated in terms of performance and microstructure. The parameters considered in the investigation were the concrete grade, dosage of self-curing compound, curing regime, temperature and duration of curing. Performance investigations included water retention tests, compressive strength test and durability studies (porosity, sorptivity, rapid chloride permeability and accelerated corrosion permeability tests). Microstructural analyses studies (X-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy) were conducted to confirm the results obtained from the macrostructural studies. Two grades of concretes, with compressive strengths of 70 MPa and 50 MPa, were used. Based on experimentation and microstructural studies, it was concluded that the addition of optimum dosages of hydrophilic and hydrophobic chemicals arrested loss of moisture, resulting in improved water retention and progressive hydration of SCC.