The main condition for obtaining a strong concrete structure is the hydration of cement. An important factor for this process is the preservation of moisture in the solution. The evaporation of moisture from the newly poured concrete mixture is influenced by environmental factors – temperature and humidity, the presence of wind. The higher the temperature and the lower the humidity, the faster the loss of moisture from the concrete will occur.
Why do I need to take care of concrete after pouring?
It is necessary to take care of the concrete after pouring to prevent the appearance of defects and cracks that appear if the hydration process has not ended. After pouring concrete, you need to carefully check the integrity of the formwork for possible water leakage through even minor cracks. Do not move the formwork for about 2 hours. During this time, the setting of the concrete mortar takes place. It is necessary to protect the formwork from mechanical impact, and if there is a chance of precipitation, it is necessary to cover it with a plastic film.
How to protect concrete from moisture loss, especially in summer?
You need to start caring for concrete after 8 hours. From this moment on, it must be regularly moistened, covered with a polyethylene film or protected with a layer of a fortifier (membrane-forming agent) Teknokur 100 for concrete surfaces based on an acrylic emulsion, which prevents the evaporation of moisture from freshly laid concrete and prevents the occurrence of cracks.
The main properties of the polyethylene film and the Teknokur 100 membrane forming agent are:
- effective retention of moisture necessary for the hydration of cement in concrete.
- reducing the likelihood of shrinkage cracks in concrete
- increasing the strength of the surface
- environmental friendliness, the ability to be used indoors
- improving the mechanical strength of concrete
- protection from dust on the surface
Compliance with the rules of concrete care is a part of the technology that should not be violated. The resulting concrete structure will meet the necessary strength indicators and will meet the technical requirements.