JAWAHARLAL NEHRU TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY, KAKINADA

KAKINADA

A project report on

HIGH STRENGTH SELF CURING CONCRETE

By
Y J P S Valli (10KN1A0118)
A Murali Krishna Reddy (11KN1A0130)
K Bhavani Venkateswarulu (11KN1A0112)
B Manoj (11KN1A0127)
CH Srikanth (11KN1A0150)
Under The Esteemed Guidance Of

S. Pavan M.Tech.

Department of CIVIL ENGINEERING

NRI

INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

(Approved by A.I.C.T.E & Affiliated to JNTU, Kakinada)

(An ISO 9001:2008 certified institution)
Agiripalli, Krishna district -521 212, Andhra Pradesh, 2015
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NRI INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

(Approved by A.I.C.T.E & Affiliated to JNTU, Kakinada)
(An ISO 9001:2008 Certified Institution)
Agiripalli, Krishna district -521 212, Andhra Pradesh, 2015
Department of CIVIL ENGINEERING

CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that this project work entitled

High Strength Self Curing Concrete

is a bonafied work carried by
Y J P S Valli (10KN1A0118)
A Murali Krishna (11KN1A0130)
K Bhavani Venkateswarulu (11KN1A0112)
B Manoj (11KN1A0127)
CH Srikanth (11KN1A0150)
They submitted to the department of CIVIL ENGINEERING,
in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of degree of Bachelor of
Technology to the JNTUK during the academic year 2014-2015.The results
embodied in this project work have not been submitted to the other university or
Institute for the award of any degree / diploma.
Signature of guide

Signature of Head of Department

(S.Pavan) M.Tech

(B. Satya Narayana) M.Tech

EXTERNAL EXAMINER

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Acknowledgement
All the success in the every step of our project involves great efforts
of the masters who guided us all through the way, forbidding many obstacles
and making us to achieve this main project a grand success.
With the sense of gratitude we wish to express our profound regards to
our project guide S.PAVAN Assistant professor for his supervision in framing
our project in an outstanding manner for his remarkable guidance and
encouragement throughout the project.
We convey our heartfelt thanks to Sri. B. Satya Narayana M.Tech
Associate professor & Head of Civil Engineering Department for his infallible
cooperation in the evolution of main project.
We would like to sincerely thank to the principle of NRI Institute of
Technology Dr. C. Naga Bhaskar, M.Tech., PhD, FIE, CE, MISTE, and
MCSI for providing necessary to carry out the project successfully.
A special note of thanks to all the faculty members of Civil
Engineering Department, for sharing their years and adding momentum to our
project.
Project associates:
1) Y J P S Valli (10KN1A0118)
2) A Murali Krishna Reddy (11KN1A0130)
3) K Bhavani Venkateswarulu (11KN1A0112)
4) B Manoj (11KN1A0127)
5) CH Srikanth (11KN1A0150)

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DECLARATION
We the members of the project
HIGH STRENGTH SELF CURING CONCRETE hereby declare that the
matter embodied in this project is the genuine work done by us and has not been
submitted either to this university or to any other university / institute for the
fulfillment of this requirement of any other course of study

Project associates:
1) Y J P S Valli (10KN1A0118)
2) A Murali Krishna (11KN1A0130)
3) K Bhavani Venkateswarulu (11KN1A0112)
4) B Manoj (11KN1A0127)
5) CH Srikanth (11KN1A0150)

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ABSTRACT
Concrete is the second most consumed material in the world after water and it is used
most widely in the construction industry due to its high compressive strength and durability. It is

obtained by mixing cement, aggregates, water and sometimes admixtures in required

proportions. The strength, durability and other characteristics of the concrete depend upon the
properties of its ingredients, the proportion of mix, the method of compaction and other
controls during placing and curing.
Lack of proper curing can badly affect the strength and durability. Self-curing concrete is one
type of special concrete which is mitigated insufficient curing due to human negligence
paucity of water in arid areas, inaccessibility of structures in difficult terrains and in areas
where the presence of fluorides in water will badly affect the characteristics of concrete. The
use of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG4000) in conventional concrete as an admixture helps better
hydration and hence the strength of concrete.
The project focuses about increasing the compressive strength, tensile strength, modulus of
rupture and other durability studies of concrete by adding the admixture (PEG400) and by
varying the percentage of PEG by weight of cement from 0% to 2% .The studies are done to
study the required quantities to develop a high strength concrete of self-curing mechanism.
The aim of this investigation is to study the strength and durability properties of concrete
using water-soluble Polyethylene Glycol as self-curing agent. The function of self-curing
agent is to reduce the water evaporation from concrete, and hence they increase the water
retention capacity of concrete compared to the conventionally cured concrete. The use of selfcuring admixtures is very important from the point of view that saving of water is a necessity
everyday (each one cubic metre of concrete requires 3m3 of water in a construction, most of
which is used for curing).
In the foregoing study, our project deals with the strength, durability studies and also we
proceed with split tensile strength of concrete containing self-curing agent to investigate and
compare with those of conventionally cured concrete. The aim of our project is to prove that
the concrete cast with Polyethylene Glycol as self-curing agent is stronger than that obtained
by sprinkler curing as well as immersion.

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CONTENTS
List of Tables
List of Figures
Chapter-1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Methods of self-curing
1.2 Mechanism of Internal Curing
1.3 Significance of Self-Curing
1.4 Potential Materials for Internal Curing (IC)
1.5 Polyethylene Glycol
Chapter-2 LITERATURE REVIEW
Chapter-3 SCOPE AND OBJECTIVES
Chapter-4 EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAMME
4.1 Materials used
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

4.1.1 Cement
4.1.2 Fine Aggregate
4.1.3 Coarse Aggreagate
4.1.4 Polyethylene glycol (PEG)
4.1.5 BASF glenium B233

4.2 Detailed investigation on concrete

4.2.1 Test for Fresh Properties of Concrete
1. 4.2.1.1 Workability Test
2. 4.2.1.1 Slump test
4.2.2 Test for Properties of Concrete
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.

4.2.2. A). Water Retentivity Test

4.2.2. B). Compressive Strength of Concrete
4.2.2. C). Flexural Strength of Concrete
4.2.2. D). Split tensile strength of concrete

4.2.3 Durability Studies on Concrete

1. 4.2.3 A). Acid Attack Factor Test
2. 4.2.3 B). Acid Durability Factor Test
4.2.4 Sorptivity study:
Chapter-5 RESULTS AND DISSCUSSION
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Chapter-6 CONCLUSION

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1. INTRODUCTION
Curing is the name given to the procedures used for promoting the hydration of the
cement, and consists of a control of temperature and of moisture movement from and into the
concrete. Curing allows continuous hydration of cement and consequently continuous gain in
the strength, once curing stops strength gain of the concrete also stops. Proper moisture
conditions are critical because the hydration of the cement virtually ceases when the relative
humidity within the capillaries drops below 80%. Proper curing of concrete structures is
important to meet performance and durability requirements. In conventional curing this is
achieved by external curing applied after mixing, placing and finishing. Self-curing or
internal curing is a technique that can be used to provide additional moisture in concrete for
more effective hydration of cement and reduced self-desiccation. When concrete is exposed
to the environment evaporation of water takes place and loss of moisture will reduce the
initial water cement ratio which will result in the incomplete hydration of the cement and
hence lowering the quality of the concrete. Various factors such as wind velocity, relative
humidity, atmospheric temperature, water cement ratio of the mix and type of the cement
used in the mix. Evaporation in the initial stage leads to plastic shrinkage cracking and at the
final stage of setting it leads to drying shrinkage cracking. Curing temperature is one of the
major factors that affect the strength development rate. At elevated temperature ordinary
concrete losses its strength due to the formation of the cracks between two thermally
incompatible ingredients, cement paste and aggregates. When concrete is cured at high
temperature normally develops higher early strength than concrete produced and cured at
lower temperature, but strength is generally lowered at 28 days and later stage .A durable
concrete is one that performs satisfactorily under the anticipated exposure condition during its
designed service life. In addition to the normal concrete mix some additional compounds in
proper dosage and materials such as fly ash are used to increase the durability and strength of
the concrete mix.

1.1 Methods of self-curing:

Currently, there are two major methods available for internal curing of concrete. The first
method uses saturated porous lightweight aggregate (LWA) in order to supply an internal
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source of water, which can replace the water consumed by chemical shrinkage during cement
hydration. The second method uses poly-ethylene glycol (PEG) which reduces the
evaporation
of water from the surface of concrete and also helps in water retention
1.2 Mechanism of Internal Curing: Continuous evaporation of moisture takes place from
an exposed surface due to the difference in chemical potentials (free energy) between the
vapors and liquid phases. The polymers added in the mix mainly form hydrogen bonds with
water molecules and reduce the chemical potential of the molecules which in turn reduces the
vapors pressure, thus reducing the rate of evaporation from the surface.
1.3 Significance of Self-Curing: When the mineral admixtures react completely in a
blended cement system, their demand for curing water (external or internal) can be much
greater than that in a conventional ordinary Portland cement concrete. When this water is not
readily available, significant autogenous deformation and (early-age) cracking may result.
Due to the chemical shrinkage occurring during cement hydration, empty pores are created
within the cement paste, leading to a reduction in its internal relative humidity and also to
shrinkage which may cause early-age cracking
1.4 Potential Materials for Internal Curing (IC): The following materials can provide
internal water reservoirs:

Lightweight Aggregate (natural and synthetic, expanded shale)

Super-absorbent Polymers

Polyethylene glycol

1.5 Advantages of Internal Curing:

Internal curing (IC) is a method to provide the water to hydrate all the cement,
accomplishing what the mixing water alone cannot do.

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Provides water to keep the relative humidity (RH) high, keeping self-desiccation from
occurring.

Eliminates largely autogeneous shrinkage.

Maintains the strengths of mortar/concrete at the early age (12 to 72 hrs.) above the
level where internally & externally induced strains can cause cracking.

Can make up for some of the deficiencies of external curing, both human related
(critical period when curing is required in the first 12 to 72 hours) and hydration

1.5 Polyethylene Glycol:

Polyethylene glycol is a condensation polymer of ethylene oxide and water with the
general formula H(OCH2CH2)nOH, where n is the average number of repeating
oxyethylene groups typically from 4 to about 180. The abbreviation (PEG) is termed in
combination with a numeric suffix which indicates the average molecular weights. One
common feature of PEG appears to be the water-soluble nature. Polyethylene glycol is
non-toxic, odorless, neutral, lubricating, nonvolatile and non-irritating and is used in a
variety of pharmaceuticals.

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2. LITERATURE REVIEW
Physical properties of self-curing concrete (SCUC) by Author(s) Magda I.
Mousa et.all (2014)
The aim of this research is to evaluate the effects of self-curing agents such as presoaked lightweight aggregate (leca) and polyethylene-glycol with different ratios on the
physical properties (such as volumetric water absorption, water permeability,
water sorptivity and mass loss) for concretes containing different cement contents; 300, 400
and 500 kg/m3, different watercement ratios; 0.5, 0.4 and 0.3, and silica fume ratios; 0.0%
and 15% cured in dry-air (25 _c) during the experiments.
The results should help explain the effect of self-curing agents on the physical
properties of concrete. Also, the results provide additional data to determine self-curing agent
content for optimization of the physical properties of concrete.

Mechanical properties of self-curing concrete (SCUC) Author(s) Magda I.

Mousa a,*, Mohamed G. Mahdy et.all (2014)
The principal aim of this paper is to evaluate the effects of different types and
percentage of self-curing agents on the mechanical properties of concrete (such as
compressive, tensile, Flexural strength and modulus of elasticity). The self-curing agents
employed in this paper were pre-soaked in water lightweight aggregate (leca) and chemical
agent of polyethylene-Glycol (Ch.) with different ratios. Different cement contents (300, 400,
500 kg/m3), different watercement ratios (0.5, 0.4, 0.3) and silica fume ratios (0.0%, 15%)
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were used in concrete and cured in dry air (25 _C) during the experiment. The results should
help explain the effect of self-curing agents on the mechanical properties of concrete. Also,
the results provide more knowledge about the determination of self-curing agent ratios and
the best type to optimize the mechanical properties of concrete.

Comparison between Mechanical Properties of M30 Grade Self compacting

Concrete For Conventional Water Immersion and Few Non-Water based
Curing Techniques Author(s)

Pamnani Nanak J., et . all (2013)

Like conventional vibrated concrete, a relation between compressive strength, split

and flexural strength can be established for SCC too. Immersion curing gives best result for
curing in SCC while no curing or without curing is observed to be the weakest. However with
prolonged age of 90 days SCC can achieve strengths at par with design strength without
curing also. Curing with Polyethylene Film can be a good alternate to conventional
immersion method especially for vertical or inclined members. Curing compound and
Polyethylene Film methods of curing can be used as an effective method of curing in the area
with water scarcity without compromising the design strength of SCC.

As per Vijai K., et.al. (2010), SCC is achieved by reducing the volume ratio of
aggregate to cementitious materials, increasing the paste volume and using various viscosity
enhancing admixtures and super plasticizers. It is the use of super plasticizer which has made
it possible to use w/c ratio as low as 0.25 or even lower and yet to make flowing concrete to
obtain strength of the order 120 MPa or more. Building elements made of high strength
concrete are usually densely reinforced.

Kumbhar P.D., et. al. (2011), observed that the behaviour of the design concrete mix
is significantly affected by variation in humidity and temperature both in fresh and hardened
state. The strength of concrete is affected by a number of factors, one of which is the length
of time for which it is kept moist, i.e. cured, another being the method of curing. Inadequate
or insufficient curing is one of main factors contributing to weak, powdery surfaces with low
abrasion resistance and durability.

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Exposed surfaces of concrete shall be kept continuously in a damp or wet condition

by ponding or by covering with a layer of sacking, canvas, hessian or similar materials and
kept constantly wet for at least seven days from the date of placing concrete in case of
ordinary Portland Cement-and at least 10 days where mineral admixtures or blended cements
are used. (IS 456 -2000)
Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia (CCAA) (2006), in a data sheet mention that curing
is the process of controlling the rate and extent of moisture loss from concrete during cement
hydration. This can be achieved by:

Either supplying the water from outside (Ponding & Spraying)

Continuously wetting the exposed surface thereby preventing the loss of moisture
from it.

Leaving formwork in place

Covering the concrete with an impermeable member

Application of a suitable chemical (wax etc.)

DEVELOPMENT OF NORMAL STRENGTH AND HIGH STRENGTH

SELF CURING CONCRETE USING SUPER ABSORBING POLYMERS
(SAP) AND COMPARISON OF STRENGTH CHARACTERISTICS
Author(s) K.Vedhasakthi1, et .all
`In this investigation, cube compressive strength and split tensile strength of conventionally
cured Normal Strength and High Strength Concrete has been compared with Normal Strength
and High Strength Self Cured Concrete. High Strength Concrete was achieved by adding
Silica Fume (SF) as mineral admixture and Glenium B233 (Super plasticizer-SP) as chemical
admixture. SF was added as a replacement of cement with varying percentages as 5%, 10%
and 15%. Based on the result obtained, the optimum percentage of replacement of cement
using SF has been found out.

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3. SCOPE AND OBJECTIVES

i) The scope is to study the effect of polyethylene glycol (PEG 200, PEG 4000) on
strength and durability characteristics of self-curing concrete.
ii) The objective is to study the mechanical characteristics such as compressive strength,
water retention test, flexural strength, split tensile strength by varying the percentage
of PEG 200, PEG 4000 from 0% to 1% by weight of cement for M70 grade.
iii) And also study the durability characteristics such as chloride attack and sorptivity test
by varying the percentage of PEG 200, PEG 4000 from 0% to 1%.

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4. EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAMME
The experimental programme was explained below:
To study the compressive strength, water retentivity, and durability for M70 mixes were
considered. Total 10 cubes were casted which involves different dosages (0%, 0.1%, 0.5%
and 1%) of self-curing agents polyethylene glycol (PEG), under different curing conditions
(indoor, conventional). Compressive strength test was conducted after 7, 14, 28 days of
curing and to investigate the water retentivity capacity; the cubes were weighed for 3 days, 7,
14, 28 days from the date of casting. The curves between compressive strength and
percentage of self curing agent, weight loss and number of days of curing were plotted.
Fig 4.1: FLOW CHART OF EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAMME FOR CONCRETE

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IC 1 Cubes
OC-0%
WC 1 Cubes
P-4000-0.1%

P-4000-0.1%
1 Cubes

P-4000-0.5%

P-4000-0.5%
1 Cubes

P-4000-1%

P-4000-1%
1 Cubes

PEG 4000

PEG

OC-0%
PEG 200

IC-0%
1 Cubes
WC-0%
1 Cubes

P-200-0.1%

P-200-0.1%
1 Cubes

P-200-0.5%

P-200-0.5%
1 Cubes

P-200-1%

P-200-1%
1 Cubes

NOMENCLATURE FOR DESIGN SPECIMEN

OC -- Ordinary concrete
IC -- Internal curing
WC Wet curing
PEG Polyethylene glycol
P 4000 and P 200 are polyethylene glycol with molecular weights

4.1 Materials Used

The different materials used in the investigation are:
4.1.1 Cement
The cement used in the investigation was found to be 53 grade Ordinary Portland
Cement confirming to IS: 12269 1987.
4.1.2 Fine Aggregate
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The fine aggregate used was obtained from a nearby river course. The fine aggregate
confirming to zone II according to IS 383-1970 was used. The sand was sieved through a
set of sieves (i.e. 2.36mm, 1.18mm, 600, 300 and 150 ). Sand retained on each sieve was
filled in different bags and stacked separately. To obtain zone II sand correctly, sand
retained on each sieve is mixed in appropriate proportion. The physical properties of fine
aggregate and proportion in which each size fraction is mixed in table 1 & 2 respectively.
Table 4.1 Physical Properties of fine aggregate
Fineness modulus

2.80

Bulk density

1.4gm/cc

Specific gravity

2.6

Table 4. 2 Proportions of different size fractions of sand obtain zone-II sand

Sieve size
(mm)

% Passing
Recommended

Adopted

Grading. (%) weight

by IS:383
10

Cumulative %Weight

Retained

100

100

4.75

90-100

100

2.36

75-100

85

1.18

55-90

70

600

35-59

45

300

8-30

10

150

0-10

Retained

Weight
Retained
in ( gm)

4.1.3 Coarse aggregate

The coarse aggregate used is from a local crushing unit having 20mm nominal size.
The coarse aggregate confirming to 20mm well-graded according to IS-383 is used in this
investigation. The coarse aggregate produced from quarry was sieved through all the sieves
(i.e., 20mm, 16mm, 12.5mm, 10mm and 4.75mm). the material retained on each sieve was
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filled in bags and stacked separately. To obtain 20mm well-graded aggregate, coarse
aggregate retained on each sieve is mixed in appropriate proportions. The physical properties
and proportions in each fraction are shown in table 3&4 respectively.
Table 4.3 Physical properties of coarse aggregate
Fineness modulus

7.35

Bulk density

1.59gm/cc

Specific gravity

2.67

Table4.4 Proportions of different size fraction of coarse aggregate

% Passing
Sieve size

Cumulative
Adopted

Recommended
(mm)

Weight
% Weight

(%)Weight
Grading

by IS-383

Retained
Retained

40

100

100

20

95-100

100

16

67-82

70

12

42-66

45

10

25-55

30

4.75

0-10

Retained
In(gm)

4.1.4 Polyethylene glycol (PEG)

Polyethylene glycol of low molecular (200) and high molecular weight (4000) were
used in the study. The chemicals were mixed with water thoroughly prior to mixing of water
in concrete.
4.1.5 BASF glenium B233
BASF glenium B233 is a super plasticizing admixture. Glenium B233 is an admixture
of a new generation based on modified polycarboxylic ether. The product has been primarily
developed for applications in high performance concrete where the highest durability and
performance is required.

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4.2 Detailed investigation on concrete

In this study, mix design is done by two methods
1. IS code
2. ACI code
In order to obtain strength around 70 MPa. Number of trails were conducted to obtain
the desired strength and to maintain good workability (slump of about 50mm) and finally
acquired a mix proportion (1:1.3:2.1) (C: F.A:C.A) with w/c ratio of 0.32. To obtain good
workability and desired strength the optimum water-cement ratio kept at 0.32 and superplasticizer is to be used in the mix.
4.2.1 Test for Fresh Properties of Concrete
4.2.1.1 Workability Test:
4.2.1.1 A). Slump test
Slump test is the most commonly used method of measuring workability of concrete.
It is not a suitable method for very wet or very dry concrete. It does not measure all factor
contributing to workability.

Fig 4.1 Slump test apparatus

4.2.2 Test for Properties of Concrete

4.2.2. A). Water Retentivity Test
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Water retentivity is the ability of the substance to retain water.

To perform the water retentivity test, the cubes were weighed for every 3 days from
the date of casting. Weight loss for the specimens in indoor curing, and weight gain for the
conventional curing are noted and their behaviour is plotted in graph against number of days
of curing.
4.2.2. B). Compressive Strength of Concrete
The compression test was conducted according to IS 516-1959. The compressive
strength was obtained after 7, 14 and 28 days of curing. Standard cast iron moulds of
dimensions 150x150x150mm were used to cast the specimen. Material required for casting is
given in Table 4.5 & 4.7.

Table 4.5 Material quantities of PEG 4000

S.N
o

Nomenclat
ure
Of Mix

1
2

Air curing
Water

curing
P-4000-

0.1%
P-4000-

0.5%
P-4000-1%

No. Of
Cubes

Ceme
nt
(Kg)

Glenium
B233(ml
)

FA
(Kg)

CA
( Kg)

Wate
r
(lt)

Polyethyle
ne glycol
(gm.)

Wate
r
(lt)

Polyethyle
ne glycol
(gm)

Table 4.6 Material quantities of PEG 200

S.N
o

Nomenclat
ure
Of Mix

1
2

Air curing
Water
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No. Of
Cubes

Ceme
nt
(Kg)

Glenium
B233(ml
)

FA
(Kg)

CA
( Kg)

curing
P-200-

0.1%
P-200-

0.5%
P-200-1%

4.2.2. C). Flexural Strength of Concrete

The beam specimens were tested on universal testing machine for two-point loading
to create a pure bending. The bearing surface of machine was wiped off clean and sand or
other material is removed from the surface of the specimen. The two point bending load
applied was increased continuously at a constant rate until the specimen breaks down and no
longer can be sustained. The maximum load applied on specimen was recorded. The modulus
of rupture depends on where the specimen breaks along the span. Beam dimensions are
500mm100mm100mm. if the specimen breaks at the middle third of the span then the
modulus of rupture is given by
frup. = (WL)/(bd2)
where; P = load,
d = depth of the beam,
b = width of the beam.
4.2.2. D). Split tensile strength of concrete
The cylinder specimens were tested on compression testing machine of capacity
3000KN.The bearing surface of machine was wiped off clean and loses other sand or other
material removed from the surface of the specimen. The load applied was increased
continuously at a constant rate until the resistance of the specimen to the increasing load

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breaks down and no longer can be sustained. The maximum load applied on specimen was
recorded.
fsplit = 2 P/DL,
Where; P = load,
D = diameter of cylinder,
L = length of the cylinder
4.2.3 Durability Studies on Concrete
4.2.3 A). Acid Attack Factor Test
The chemical resistance of the concrete was studied through chemical attack by
immersing them in an acid solution. After 28 days curing period of the specimens of each
batch were taken and their surfaces were cleaned with soft nylon brush to remove weak
reaction products and loose material from the specimen. The initial mass, body diagonal
dimensions value were measured. 2 specimens of each batch of concrete were immersed in
5% HCL.
Preparation of 5% HCL for 5lt solution:
C1V1=C2V2
Concentration of HCL C1= 36%
Required concentration of solution C2= 5%
Volume required V1= 5lt
Volume of HCl V1 =

C 2V 2
C1

55
36

= 694 ml

i.e., to prepare 5 liters solutions of 5% HCl, the volume of HCl to be added is 694 ml.

The mass, diagonal dimensions values are measured at 3, 7, 10, 14, 21, 28 days of immersion.
Compressive strength is measured after 28 days of immersion before testing, each specimen
is removed from the baths, brushed with a soft nylon brush and rinsed in tap water. This
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process removes loose surface material from the specimens. Mass change, reduction in
compressive strengths values and diagonal dimensions are observed.
The extent of deterioration at each corner of the struck face and the opposite face is
measured in terms of the acid diagonals (in mm) for each of two cubes and the Acid Attack
Factor (AAF) per face is calculated as follows.
AAF = (Loss in mm )/4

4.2.3 B). Acid Durability Factor Test

For determining the resistance of concrete specimens to aggressive environment
such as acid attack, the durability factors as proposed by the philosophy of ASTM (6661997). In the present investigation, the Acid Durability Factors are derived in terms of
relative strengths. The relative strengths are always compared with respect to the 28 days
value (i.e., at the start of the test).
The Acid Durability Factors (ADF) can be calculated as follows.
ADF = Sr N / M
Where, Sr - Relative Strength at N days, (%)
N - Number of days at which the durability factor is needed.
M - Number of days at which the exposure is to be terminated.
4.2.4 Sorptivity study:
The sorptivity tests were carried out on all batches of SCC with size of 10x10 x10cm.
The preparation of samples also included water impermeability of their lateral faces, reducing
the effect of water evaporation. The test started with the registration of samples weight and
afterwards they were placed in a recipient in contact with a level of water capable to
submerge them about 5 mm as shown in Fig 4.9. After a predefined period of time, the
samples were removed from the recipient to proceed to weight registration. Before weighing,
the samples superficial water was removed with a wet cloth. Immediately after weighting, the
samples were replaced in the recipient till reach the following measuring time. The procedure
was repeated, consecutively, at various times such as 10min, 20min. 30min, 1hr, 2hr, 3hr and
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6hrs.

Figure 4.1 Sorptivity test, applying wax on the sides of the cube specimen

Because of a small initial surface tension and buoyancy effects, the relationship between
cumulative water absorption (kg/m2) and square root of exposure time (t 0.5) shows deviation
from linearity during first few minutes. Thus, for the calculation of sorptivity coefficient, the
section of curves for the above exposure period of 10min to 6 hours and linear curves were
plotted.The sorptivity coefficient (S) was taken by using the following expression obtained
from equation of curve line:
i = St + C
Where,

i = cumulative water absorption per unit surface area in mm

i=

Where;

W
AD

W = the amount of water adsorbed in (g);

A = the cross-section of specimen that was in contact with water (mm2);
D = density of water
S = the sorptivity coefficient of the specimen (m/min0.5).
C = constant

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This chapter presented an elaborated study on the experimental program conducted on selfcuring concrete for determining the strength and durability properties. The discussion on the
results obtained from the study is explained in chapter 5.

5. RESULTS AND DISSCUSSION

As per experimental programme results for different experiments were obtained. They
are shown in table format or graph, which is to be presented in this chapter.

5.1 Studies on Concrete

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5.1.1 Slump Test

The slump test is performed to know about workability. The plot of the slump test
values for different dosages of PEG is shown in Table 5.1 & Fig 5.1. The following are the
observations on slump test.
i) It is been observed that in case of specimens with PEG 4000 of 1% is less compared
to other dosages (0.1%, 0.5%).
ii) It is been observed that in case of specimens with PEG 200 of 0.1% is less compared
to other dosages ( 0.5%, 1%).
Table 5.1 Slump test values for different dosages of PEG
Percentage

0.1

0.5%

1%

dosage of PEG
PEG 4000

%
52m

53.6

50m

PEG 200

m
50m

mm
55m

m
58m

Fig 5.1 graph between dosage of PEG and slump values

60
55
Slump in mm 50

PEG 4000
PEG 200

45
0

0.5

1.5

Dosage of PEG

5.1.2 Water Retentivity Test

5.1.2. A) Water Retentivity Test Results Of PEG 4000:
Concrete with low molecular weight polyethylene glycol subjected to indoor curing
was studied by weighing the samples at regular intervals of 3 days, with digital weighing of
accuracy 5 gm up to 28 days. The results were recorded in Table 5.2. The plot of weight loss

26 | P a g e

and average weight loss with different percentage of polyethylene glycol is shown in Fig.5.2.
The following are the observations of water retentivity of concrete.
i) it is clearly observed that the specimen without self-curing agent i.e., in air curing
losing more weight when compared to specimens with dosage of 0.1%, 0.5%, 1% of
self-curing agent.
ii) It is also been observed that in case of specimens with self-curing agent of PEG 40000.5% dosage the weight loss is more when compared to other dosages
( 0.1%, 1%) of self-curing agent.
iii) It is also been observed that in case of specimens with self-curing agent of PEG 40001% dosage the weight loss is less when compared to other dosages
( 0.1%, 0.5%) of self-curing agent.
Table 5.2 Avg weight losses of PEG 4000

AVG. WEIGHT LOSS OF CUBES AT DIFFERENT AGES

Grade
Air curing
P-4000-0.1%
P-4000-0.5%
P-4000-1%

0 days 3 days 7 days

10 days

14 days

21 days

28 days

53

75

90

106

133

143

13

27

33

43

53

63

17

30

43

55

66

76

11

22

30

43

50

60

Fig 5.2: Graph between age of curing and average weight losses (gm)

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160
140
120
100
80
Average weight losses (gm)
60
40
20
0

Air curing
p-4000-0.1%
p-4000-0.5%
p-4000-1%
0 10 20 30

Age in days

5.1.2. B) Water Retentivity Test Results of PEG 200 :

Concrete with low molecular weight polyethylene glycol subjected to indoor curing
was studied by weighing the samples at regular intervals of 3 days, with digital weighing of
accuracy 5 gm up to 28 days. The results were recorded in Table 5.3. The plot of weight loss
and average weight loss with different percentage of polyethylene glycol is shown in Fig.5.3.
The following are the observations of water retentivity of concrete.
1. It is clearly observed that the specimen without self-curing agent i.e., in air curing
losing more weight when compared to specimens with dosage of 0.1%, 0.5%, 1%
of self-curing agent.
2. It is also been observed that in case of specimens with self-curing agent of PEG
200-1% dosage the weight loss is more when compared to other dosages
3.

( 0.1%, 0.5%) of self-curing agent.

It is also been observed that in case of specimens with self-curing agent of PEG
4000-0.1% dosage the weight loss is less when compared to other dosages
( 0.5%, 1%) of self-curing agent.

5.1.3 Compressive Strength Test Results

5.1.3 A). Compressive strength result of PEG 4000
As per the Table 5.4 and Fig 5.4 the following are the observations on compressive
strength for indoor curing and wet curing.
i) The compressive strength of water curing without self-curing agent is more when
compared to other dosages ( air curing, PEG 4000-0.1%, 0.5%, 1% )
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ii) The compressive strength of PEG 4000-1% dosage of self-curing agent is more
compared to other dosages of self-curing agent ( air curing, PEG 4000-0.1%, 0.5% ).
iii) PEG 4000-1% dosage of self-curing agent has shown better strength than air curing
(0% of self-curing agent ) but not so good as water curing ( 0% of self-curing agent ).
iv) The compressive strength of PEG 4000-0.5% dosage of self-curing agent is lesser
compared to other dosages ( 0.1%, 1%).
Table 5.4 Compressive Strength Test Results Of PEG 4000
Grade
Air curing
water curing
p-4000-0.1%
p-4000-0.5%
p-4000-1%

0 days
(N/mm2)
0
0
0
0
0

7 days
(N/mm2)
42.22
57.77
47.4
46.96
52.59

14 days
(N/mm2)
46.96
64.44
52.59
51.85
64.44

28 days
(N/mm2)
58.51
78.22
70.36
67.1
75.25

Fig 5.4: Graph between age of curing and average compressive strength results

90
80
70
60
Air curing
water curing
p-4000-0.1%
p-4000-0.5%
p-4000-1%

50
Average compressive strength (MPa) 40
30
20
10
0
0 10 20 30
Age of curing

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Fig 5.5: Tested Specimens Of PEG 4000

5.1.3 B). Compressive strength result of PEG 200

As per the Table 5.5 and Fig 5.6 the following are the observations on compressive
strength for indoor curing and wet curing.
i) The compressive strength of water curing without self-curing agent is more when
compared to other dosages ( air curing, PEG 200-0.1%, 0.5%, 1% )
ii) The compressive strength of PEG 200-0.1% dosage of self-curing agent is more
compared to other dosages of self-curing agent (air curing, PEG 4000-0.5%, 1% ).
iii) PEG 200-0.1% dosage of self-curing agent has shown better strength than air curing
(0% of self-curing agent ) but not so good as water curing ( 0% of self-curing agent ).
iv) The compressive strength of PEG 200-1% dosage of self-curing agent is lesser
compared to other dosages (0.1%, 0.5%).
Table 5.5 Compressive Strength Test Results of PEG 200
Grade
Air curing
water curing
p-200-0.1%
p-200-0.5%
p-200-1%

0 days
(N/mm2)
0
0
0
0
0

7 days
(N/mm2)
42.22
57.77
56.29
50.37
47.4

14 days
(N/mm2)
46.96
64.44
60
59.25
55.5

28 days
(N/mm2)
58.51
78.22
71.11
65.92
64.44

Fig 5.6: Graph between age of curing and compressive strength test results

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90
80
70
60
Air curing
water curing
p-200-0.1%
p-200-0.5%
p-200-1%

50
Ave rage compre ssive strength (MPa) 40
30
20
10
0
0 20 40
Age of curing

Fig 5.7: Tested Specimens Of PEG 200

5.1.4 Flexural Strength Test

As per Table 5.6 & Fig 5.8 the flexural strength test results for indoor cueing and wet
curing are listed below.
i) The flexural strength was conducted after fixation of dosage of PEG 4000 and PEG
200.
ii) For PEG 4000 the optimum dosage is 1%. At 1% of PEG 4000 the flexural strength is
more compared to PEG 200.
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iii) For PEG 200 the optimum dosage is 0.1%. at 0.1% of PEG 200 the flexural strength
is less compared to PEG 4000.
iv) But flexural strength value for wet curing ( 0% of self curing agent ) is more
compared to other dosages (PEG 4000, PEG 200& indoor curing).
v)

The flexural strength test value for indoor curing is less when compared to other
dosages.
Table 5.6 Average flexural Strength Test Values

Grade
Indoor
curing
Water
curing
P-4000-1%
P-200-0.1%

7
days
4.5

14
days
4.9

28
days
5.2

5.2

5.6

6.1

5
5.2

5.5
5.4

6
5.9

Fig 5.8: Graph between flexural strength and age of curing

7
6
5
Air curing
water
curing
p-4000-1%
4
flexural strength(MPa) 3
2
1
p-200-0.1%
0
0 5 10 15 20 25 30
No.of days

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Fig 5.9: Tested Specimens

5.1.5 Split Tensile Strength Test
As per Table 5.7 & Fig 6.0 the split tensile strength test results for indoor curing and
wet curing are listed below.
i) The split tensile strength was conducted after fixation of dosage of PEG 4000 and
PEG 200.
ii) For PEG 4000 the optimum dosage is 1%. At 1% of PEG 4000 the split tensile
strength is more compared to PEG 200.
iii) For PEG 200 the optimum dosage is 0.1%. At 0.1% of PEG 200 the split tensile
strength is less compared to PEG 4000.
iv) But split tensile strength value for wet curing ( 0% of self-curing agent ) is more
compared to other dosages (PEG 4000, PEG 200& indoor curing).
v) The split tensile strength test value for indoor curing is less when compared to other
dosages.
Table 5.7 Split Tensile Strength Test Values
Grade
Indoor
curing
Water
curing
p-40000.1%
p-40000.5%
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7
days
4.1

14
days
4.55

28
days
5.23

5.23

5.09

6.01

5.09

5.23

5.79

5.02

5.09

5.65

Fig 6.0: Graph between age of curing and average split tensile strength values
7
6
5
water
4 curing

Air curing

p-4000-1%

Split tensile strength(MPa) 3

2
p-200-0.1%

1
0
0

10 15 20 25 30
No.of days

Fig 6.1: Tested specimen

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