Performance of Self Curing Concrete with addition of Polyethylene Glycol 400 and Super Absorbent Polymer

Shanmugha Arts Science Technology and Research Academy University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613 401, India.

^* Corresponding author: jai@civil.sastra.edu

Abstract

Cement, aggregates, and water, either with or without appropriate admixtures, are the ingredients of concrete. Concrete must be properly cured in order to meet specifications for performance and durability. Maintaining the ideal moisture levels to encourage maximum cement hydration right away after placement is known as curing concrete. The self-curing nature of concrete eliminates the need for external curing. It works better with concrete and is primarily utilized in areas with scarce water supplies. This study compares the performance of concrete by analysing the impacts of two alternative curing agents, such as polyethylene glycol 400 and super absorbent polymers, at varied proportions by weight of cement. Once curing ingredients were added, cubes and cylinders were cast and allowed to cure outside. There is a report on the qualities that were investigated and contrasted with traditional concrete. Various ages up to 28 days were used to determine strength qualities including split tensile strength and compressive strength. Study was also done on durability attributes such porosity, sorptivity, alkalinity test, and acid resistance. The weight of cement substituted with 5% PEG 400 has a better compressive strength. Through strengthening traditional curing, PEG 400 may promote self-curing. The best ratio for obtaining maximal strength without sacrificing workability was found to be 5% of PEG 400 by weight of cement, followed by 10% and 0.25 and 0.5% of SAP. In SCC, acid has very little effect.