Types of cement doesn't need curing?
Non hydraulic cement vs hydraulic cement
There are some non-hydraulic cements that do not require curing at all. These cements harden by reacting with carbon dioxide in the air, rather than with water. However, non-hydraulic cements are not as strong as hydraulic cements, and they are not typically used in construction.
Now coming to Traditional cement which requires curing, which is a process of maintaining appropriate moisture and temperature conditions to allow the cement to develop its full strength and durability. However, there have been advancements in cement technology that aim to reduce or eliminate the need for curing. One such development is called "self-curing cement" or "self-healing cement."
It is important to note that even these types of cement still require some curing time.
Self Curing Cement or Self Curing Concrete
Self-curing cement contains special additives or chemicals (Water soluble alcohols for instance Poly Vinyl Alcohol (PVA), Poly Ethylene Glycol (PEG), and Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP) are feasible as self curing agents in concrete. Most SAPs are conjoining polyelectrolyte. That can help maintain the required moisture within the cement matrix during the hydration process. These additives can absorb and retain water, gradually releasing it to the cement as it cures. This helps in preventing the rapid evaporation of water from the cement, which is one of the main reasons why curing is necessary.
Which cement required less curing
Here are some of the types of cement that require less curing time:
Rapid-setting cement:
This type of cement is made with special additives that accelerate the hydration process. This cement can reach its initial strength in a few hours, while conventional cement may take several days.
High-early-strength cement:
This type of cement is also made with special additives that accelerate the hydration process. High-early-strength cement can reach its initial strength in a few days, while conventional cement may take several weeks.
Portland-lime cement:
This type of cement is a blend of Portland cement and lime. Portland-lime cement has a shorter curing time than Portland cement alone.
Fast-Setting Cement:
Several manufacturers produce fast-setting cement, which is designed to achieve early strength development and shorter curing times.
Quick-Setting Cement:
Quick-setting cement is another term used to describe low curing cement products that set and cure more rapidly than traditional cement.
Speedy Cement:
Some manufacturers use the term "speedy cement" to indicate their fast-curing cement products.
Accelerated Setting Cement:
Accelerated setting cement refers to cement formulations that incorporate additives to speed up the setting and curing process.
It is important to note that even these types of cement still require some curing time. The amount of curing time required will vary depending on the type of cement and the specific application.
Can curing done without water?
To ensure proper curing, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding curing time and conditions. This may involve measures such as keeping the cement moist by covering it with plastic sheeting or regularly sprinkling it with water during the initial curing period.
If the concrete is exposed to direct sunlight, cover it with a tarp or other shade material
If the concrete is exposed to cold weather, insulate it with blankets or straw.
Check the concrete regularly to make sure that it is still moist.
By eliminating or reducing the need for external curing, self-curing cement offers several advantages. It can save time, labor, and resources required for traditional curing methods. Additionally, it can provide improved durability and strength to the hardened concrete.
It's important to note that while self-curing cement reduces the reliance on external curing, it may still require some minimal curing under certain conditions or for specific applications. The exact requirements and limitations of self-curing cement may vary depending on the product and manufacturer. Therefore, it's advisable to consult the manufacturer's guidelines and recommendations for proper usage and curing requirements.
Self Curing Cement Brands in India
There are several brands and manufacturers in India that offer self-curing cement or cement with self-curing properties. Here are a few examples:
ACC Limited:
ACC Suraksha Power is a self-curing cement offered by ACC Limited. It is designed to provide higher strength and durability without the need for external curing.
UltraTech Cement:
UltraTech Duraton is a brand of cement by UltraTech Cement that claims to be self-curing. It is engineered to provide high strength and long-lasting concrete.
Ambuja Cement:
Ambuja Cement, a subsidiary of LafargeHolcim, offers a self-curing cement product called Ambuja Plus Cool Walls. It is designed to reduce heat absorption and provide a self-curing effect for the concrete.
JK Lakshmi Cement:
JK Lakshmi Cement provides a self-curing cement called JK Lakshmi Power Mix RMC. It is designed to ensure proper hydration and curing of concrete without the need for external curing.
Birla Corporation Limited:
Birla Samrat Ultimate Cement is a self-curing cement product offered by Birla Corporation. It claims to have a unique formulation that allows for self-curing properties.
Please note that the availability and specific properties of these products may vary over time, so it's recommended to check with the manufacturers or local suppliers for the most up-to-date information.