The traditional process of curing concrete is cumbersome, requires extensive labour work and leads to significant quantities of water loss. Ambuja has introduced a waterless curing technique in India that is economical and environment friendly.
Any cement concrete product or structure has to go through a curing process when the product or structure gains strength. The process of curing is done mainly with water. The chemical action between cement and water helps in hardening of concrete.
Curing must be done for a certain period of time so that concrete achieves its potential strength. It is very important to do curing properly as it crucial for the strength and durability of the concrete product or structure. The amount of time curing is to be done depends on the purpose of the concrete product or structure, temperature and humidity of the atmosphere.
Traditional curing process
Traditionally, curing is done by pouring or spraying water on concrete or mortar surfaces for an adequate period of time. Water has to be continuously replenished as and when it evaporates due to high temperature and low humidity. If the water dries out the strength of the concrete structure or surface will be impacted.
On flat surfaces such as pavements, roads, sidewalks and floor slabs curing is done by ponding water on the exposed top surface. This is done by making small bunds a few hours after the concrete work is over.
Typically, masons and labourers build bunds with cement and sand on flat concrete surfaces. Water is then poured on the surface and retained for a few days. On surfaces that cannot hold water, labourers spray water several times during the day for several days.
History and description of the technology
Ambuja Cements has come up with an alternative to combat difficulties in managing the traditional method of curing, the Ambuja Modular Curing Solution (AMCS). AMCS entails the use of a plastic sheet to prevent water losses due to evaporation, protects against strong winds, low humidity and high ambient temperatures.
How it can be used/ installed
Surfaces, which are concreted or cemented, are covered by plastic sheets primarily to prevent loss of humidity. All that the contractor has to do is to inform the service providers at Ambuja. The site engineer from Ambuja visits the premises where concrete is being poured and makes necessary arrangement at the site to cover the laid concrete. Once concrete is poured the cover is laid on top. The polymer covering comes in standard sizes that can be joined end to end to make a larger sheet. The joint is strong and water tight and does not let water or moisture to seep out. It is a quick and hassle free process.
Advantages for the construction industry
The biggest benefit is saving of water. About 12,000 litres of water required for curing 100 square metres of slab surface could be saved on an average. In India, many places are extremely hot and arid. Water availability is a serious issue. Under these circumstances curing process is not always done well. Also, labourers are required to build bunds on cemented surface or spray water several times during the day. Many a times the slab may have dry patches due to inappropriate/insufficient water application on the surface. AMCS is a service that helps reduce water usage and lower labour and other costs.
Its availability in India
At present AMCS is a service and is being expanded through its channel partners. The response to AMCS has been quite encouraging as curing is done effectively without hassles, water or labour. For Ambuja Cements, AMCS is yet another initiative towards sustainability.
