Experimental Study on Comparative Analysis of Different Concrete Curing Methods with a Focus on Compressive Strength

Abstract

For the sake of our planet's health, it is imperative that water resources are managed sustainably, and the building sector must contribute to reducing its water footprint. As this research indicates, this calls for a change toward wise water use and implementing different concrete curing methods. 36 concrete cylinders were prepared with a 1:2:3 mix ratio and divided into 4 groups of 9 cylinders. 4 groups of cylinders were cured using four different curing strategies for 7 days, 14 days, and 28 days. A compressive strength test was performed on these cylinders, and the results showed that curing by water pond attained the maximum compressive strength in the specimens, followed by curing by using a water-based curing compound, curing with waterproof plastic paper, and curing by water sprinkling. The test also revealed that the compressive strength of the specimens under any curing strategy increased with its curing period in the day.

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Journal of Construction and Building Materials Engineering
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46610/JOCBME.2024.v010i03.004
e-ISSN: 2581-6454, Vol. 10, Issue 3 (September – December, 2024) pp: (37-52)
Experimental Study on Comparative Analysis of Different
Concrete Curing Methods with a Focus on Compressive Strength
Imtiaz Ibne Azad1*, Mostakim Ahmed2, M. M. Fahad Islam Barno3
1, 3Lecturer, Department of Civil Engineering, Presidency University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
2Graduate Student, Department of Civil Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering
& Technology, Dhaka, Bangladesh
*Corresponding Author: imtiazai@pu.edu.bd
Received Date: September 03, 2024; Published Date: October 17, 2024
Abstract
For the sake of our planet's health, it is imperative that water resources are managed
sustainably, and the building sector must contribute to reducing its water footprint. As this
research indicates, this calls for a change toward wise water use and implementing
different concrete curing methods. 36 concrete cylinders were prepared with a 1:2:3 mix
ratio and divided into 4 groups of 9 cylinders. 4 groups of cylinders were cured using four
different curing strategies for 7 days, 14 days, and 28 days. A compressive strength test
was performed on these cylinders, and the results showed that curing by water pond
attained the maximum compressive strength in the specimens, followed by curing by using
a water-based curing compound, curing with waterproof plastic paper, and curing by
water sprinkling. The test also revealed that the compressive strength of the specimens
under any curing strategy increased with its curing period in the day.
Keywords- Compressive strength, Concrete, Cylinders, Curing, Sustainability, Water
resources
INTRODUCTION
To guarantee that the intended
concrete qualities fully develop, concrete
curing is an essential process that keeps the
concrete at ideal moisture levels and
temperatures during the hydration of
cementitious ingredients. Only after the
concrete is adequately cured will it become
solid and durable because hydration a
chemical reaction that occurs when cement
and water mix—forms essential components
that cause the concrete to set and harden.
The initial temperature of the concrete, the
surrounding air quality, the size of the
concrete, and the mix design all affect how
effective the hydration process is. The
performance of near-surface concrete greatly
influences the durability of concrete
structures, as early-age drying shrinkage
cracking is frequently caused by moisture
loss or insufficient curing. The length of the
curing process significantly impacts the
protection that concrete offers against steel
corrosion caused by the migration of
chlorides into the concrete [1]. As water is
necessary for the pozzolanic reaction to
occur in the later stages of cement hydration,
curing is also essential for pozzolanic
cement concretes [2].
Although water curing is still the
favored approach for most concrete work,
there are practical and affordable
alternatives, such as curing compounds used
in high-rise buildings, canal linings, and the
construction of highway pavements. Curing
chemicals are a helpful alternative in remote
places with limited water supplies and
expensive, difficult-to-manage water
transportation. With many benefits over

Experimental Study on Comparative Analysis Imtiaz Ibne Azad et al.
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conventional moist curing, these liquid
compounds are applied by rolling, brushing,
or spraying the concrete surface to create a
thin sealing layer that prevents water
evaporation. Curing compounds are water-
based solutions from low-viscosity wax
emulsions, such as Concure WB. They
provide a transparent layer that acts as a
moisture barrier after application, improving
cement hydration, boosting durability, and
minimizing shrinkage. Large concrete
surfaces, such as airport runways and
roadways, benefit significantly from
Concure WB because it lowers labor costs
while improving curing efficiency, surface
quality, and resilience to shrinkage and
cracking.
Another approach is to cover freshly
poured or installed concrete surfaces with
impermeable plastic sheeting. This is known
as concrete curing by waterproof plastic
paper. This technique is frequently applied
in construction to maintain temperature and
moisture levels around the concrete in a
controlled environment. Impervious plastic
paper aids in correctly curing concrete by
shielding it from outside impurities and
minimizing water loss through evaporation,
which improves strength development and
decreases cracking. The plastic sheeting is
generally retained for a predetermined
amount of time during the curing process to
guarantee that the concrete acquires the
necessary qualities for durability and
structural integrity.
LITERATURE REVIEW
According to the first study, "Water
footprint scenarios for 2050: A global
analysis" by AE Ercin and AY Hoekstra,
changing consumption habits can help
achieve a sustainable water footprint. It
draws attention to the fact that human
density has a significant role in determining
variations in the water footprint and raises
questions regarding how biofuel plans may
affect water supplies. The study also
emphasizes the impact of food choices on
water footprint, highlighting these elements'
significance in managing water resources
[3]. Two studies, "Water pollution from
the construction industry", highlight the
importance of water as a natural resource for
different types of development. According to
this definition, water pollution occurs when
undesirable items are introduced into water
bodies, resulting in low quality that harms
the environment and human health. The
research emphasizes the critical management
of water contamination, especially in the
building industry, considering the broader
environmental and human health
consequences [4].
A third study by Y. Pawar and S.
Kate on "curing of concrete" emphasizes the
role that curing plays in facilitating cement
hydration, temperature regulation, and
moisture control in concrete. It illustrates
how appropriate curing guarantees cement
hydration throughout, increasing continuous
concrete strength. The study emphasizes that
concrete loses its following strength gain
after curing stops [5].
The effectiveness of curing
compounds as substitutes for conventional
concrete curing techniques is investigated in
the fourth study, "Effectiveness of curing
compounds for concrete," by F. Chylinski,
A. Michalik, and M. Kozicki. The study
assesses the water retention efficiency of
these compounds and classifies them
according to their active ingredients. It also
uses the pull-off method to measure the
tensile strength of cured materials. This
study offers important new information
about the applicability and efficiency of
curing chemicals commonly used in the
European concrete industry [6].
Research on the effectiveness of
curative chemicals has been done. When
Wang et al. [7] assessed the performance of
a membrane-curing compound; the
experimental findings demonstrated that the
application period of the membrane-curing
compound had a significant impact on its
effectiveness.

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According to Austin and Robins [8], in hot
climates, air drying was the least effective
between 7 and 28 days, while wet burlap
curing proved the most successful. A
laboratory investigation was carried out by
Whiting and Snyder [9] to investigate the
efficacy of various curative chemical types
in retaining water for hydration. The
outcomes showed that adding curing agents
increased the strength of the concrete
materials.
Cement
As it sets, hardens, and adheres to
other substances, cement serves as a crucial
adhesive a chemical element essential for
building. Although cement is rarely used
alone, its primary function is to hold sand
and gravel also known as aggregate together.
It can be used to make mortar for masonry
projects when combined with fine aggregate,
or it can be used to make concrete when
mixed with sand and gravel.
Portland Composite Cement (PCC),
sold under the Shah Cement brand, shown in
Figure 1 was used in our experiment. With a
fantastic 15-year track record, Shah Cement
is the leading cement brand in Bangladesh. It
is managed by the Abul Khair Group, one of
the largest corporations in our country.
Figure 1: Portland composite cement.
Fine Aggregates
We used clean, locally sourced
Sylhet sand as our fine aggregate. This
specific variety of sand has a fineness
modulus that falls between FM 2.1 to 2.6.
The fact that the sand particles in this
category are well-spaced apart and have a
low void content is noteworthy. On the other
hand, this feature means that a larger volume
of water must be used for mixing. These fine
aggregates are smaller than 4.75mm because
they can pass through a sieve with an
aperture of 4.75mm. We used fine
aggregates with the following criteria as
Figure 2 suggests.
 Unit Weight: 100.48 lb./cubic feet
 Fineness Modulus: 2.66
Aggregates are essential in making concrete
more compact and enhancing its overall
properties.

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Figure 2: Sylhet sand as fine aggregate.
Coarse Aggregates
Large stones broken up into smaller,
frequently asymmetrical pieces are called
coarse aggregate. These aggregates are
crucial in construction projects where
minerals like limestone, granite, or river
aggregates are commonly used.
 Angular shape
 Unit weight: 145.92 lb./cubic feet
A concrete mix is made up of many different
elements, the majority of which are coarse
particles. These coarse particles are an
essential part of the mixture, taking up
significant amounts of space in the concrete.
Water
The most critical component in
creating concrete is water, which, when
combined with cement, forms a paste that
firmly holds the aggregate together. The
concrete begins to hydrate or harden as a
result of this contact. Drinking water is also
appropriate for mixing concrete. But it's
important to remember that any
contaminants in the water could affect
important concrete properties like strength,
shrinkage, setting time, or even cause
corrosion in the reinforcing. We used
drinking water supplied locally to guarantee
the integrity and quality of the concrete
mixture in our present work.
 It should be potable.
 The optimal pH range for the mixing
water used in concrete is slightly
alkaline, typically between 7.2 and 7.6.
 We must control the water amount. If
the amount of water increases,
workability will increase & decrease
concrete strength consequently.
 Only a mix ratio of 1:2:3 and w/c =
45% are used to prepare the cylindrical
specimens.
Concrete
Fine and coarse aggregates are mixed
with a fluid cement (cement paste), which
gradually solidifies over time through curing
to create concrete, a versatile composite
material. Concrete is one of the most widely
used materials in the world and is ranked
second to water. It is also the most famous
building material worldwide. Tonne for
tonne, its worldwide use surpasses that of
aluminum, steel, wood, and polymers.
The procedure involves blending
aggregates with water and dry Portland
cement to create fluid slurry that is easily
poured and formed into the necessary
shapes. Concrete hydration is the name
given to the chemical reaction that occurs
between cement and water over a few hours,
resulting in the creation of a substantial
matrix. This hardened matrix binds together
the constituent materials to form a durable,
stone-like substance with a wide range of
valuable applications.
METHODOLOGY
Sieve Analysis of Fine Aggregates
We started by weighing 500 grams of
dry fine aggregate using this technique.
After that, we weighed the sample and put it

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on a range of sieves, each with a separate
receiver, ranging in size from the largest at
4.75 mm to the smallest at 2.36 mm, 1.18
mm, 600 microns, 300 microns, and 150
microns. After connecting the sieves, we
gave the sample two minutes to pass
through. After sifting, we used a fine camel
hair brush to gently brush the bottom of the
150-micron sieve to clean it. Lastly, we
weighed the material on each sieve and
noted any that had come loose from the
mesh while it was being cleaned.
Sieve Analysis of Coarse Aggregates
Firstly, we carefully weighed 1500
grams of dry coarse aggregate. After that,
we placed this weighed sample onto a set of
sieves, starting with the most significant
40mm sieve and going down to 20 mm, 10
mm, 4.75 mm, and 2.36 mm sieves, each
with its receiver. After that, we linked the
sieves and gave the sample two minutes to
pass through them. We could account for
any material that had come loose from the
mesh during the cleaning process by
weighing the material still on each sieve
after the sieving operation was completed.
Figure 3 shows the practicality of the
procedure.
Figure 3: Sieve analysis.
Preparation of Concrete Cylinder
Specimen
Four six-inch-square cylindrical
specimens should be used for acceptance
testing. Both in the field and in the lab, it is
typically more straightforward to create and
manage smaller specimens. The nominal
maximum size of the coarse aggregate used
in the concrete should be at least three times
the diameter of the employed cylinder.
Before capping, determining the specimen's
mass gives essential information in the event
of a dispute.
Concrete Mixing
To produce concrete of a particular
grade, concrete mixing is a precise process
that involves combining concrete's
constituent parts, including cement, sand,
aggregate, and water. Concrete must be
mixed according to a carefully planned
combination to reach the required strength.
There are several facets to the art of
mixing concrete. It's more than just mixing
chemicals; it's about creating concrete of
superior quality. Superior and inferior
concrete utilize identical raw materials; the
only things that set them apart are the
methods of proportioning and mixing. For
this reason, producing excellent concrete
requires effort and knowledge.
One typical ratio for a concrete
mixture is one part cement, two parts sand,
and three parts aggregates. These
components come together to make a
concrete mix. The water-to-cement ratio has

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a significant impact on the final concrete's
quality. In other words, the concrete gets
weaker as more water is added to the mix,
resulting in a highly fluid consistency. In
contrast, reducing the amount of water in the
mixture (which leaves it reasonably dry but
still usable) increases the concrete's strength.
To achieve the appropriate concrete mixing
ratio, it is crucial to measure the dry
ingredients precisely. This is usually done
with measuring devices or buckets. By
carefully adhering to these procedures, one
can reliably produce concrete mixes that
satisfy the desired specifications and
performance standards. Fig. 4 represents our
procedure.
Figure 4: Concrete mixing.
Casting of Cylinder
Test cylinders are cast to validate
that the designated compressive strength of
the concrete mix has been attained. In this
experiment, we employed cylindrical molds
measuring 4 inches in diameter and 8 inches
in height as shown in Figure 5. The filling of
these 4-inch-diameter molds was carried out
in three equal lifts. Following each layer's
compaction with a rod, the exterior of the
mold was gently tapped to dislodge any
lingering air voids. Once the mold was
filled, the uppermost layer of concrete was
smoothed and leveled using the mold's top
surface. Subsequently, the molds were
stored without disturbance, allowing the
concrete specimens to cure and develop their
strength.
Figure 5: Casting of cylinders.

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Curing of Concrete
Curing of the concrete cylinders was
performed using four different curing
strategies. All four curing strategies are
described below in brief with relevant
figures.
Curing by Water Pond: Using this
technique, submerging them in a water pond,
nine solid cylinders were hardened. The first
step, in the procedure was to cast and
prepare the concrete cylinders according to
the required mix design and testing
specifications. The concrete cylinders were
meticulously labeled for identification after
they were ready. The cylinders were then
entirely submerged in water and put into a
pond. To achieve ideal conditions, the water
pond's temperature was constant throughout
the curing time. The concrete specimens
were placed in a regulated and moisture-rich
environment through immersion curing,
which improved their long-term strength and
durability by facilitating appropriate
hydration. The concrete cylinders were
submerged for the required time to cure, as
Figure 6 suggests, after which they were
removed and subjected to additional testing
and examination to assess their mechanical
characteristics.
Figure 6: Curing by water pond.
Curing by Water Sprinkling: Nine concrete
cylinders were to be sprayed with water as
part of this plan. The process started with the
precise mix design and testing standards in
preparing and casting the concrete cylinders.
For convenience, each cylinder was
methodically labeled. The cylinders were
then positioned to be subjected to controlled
and routine water spraying. To guarantee
that the specimens received constant
moisture during the curing time, water was
equally spread across the surfaces of the
concrete cylinders at predetermined
intervals. This water sprinkling approach
was used to provide a regulated and uniform
curing environment, minimize moisture loss,
and encourage the hydration of cement
particles within the concrete. The concrete
cylinders were carefully removed for further
testing and analysis to determine their

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mechanical qualities after a predetermined
cure period. The maintenance of appropriate
moisture levels facilitated the development
of the cylinders' intended strength and
durability properties through water
sprinkling as a curing method.
Curing by Using a Water-Based Curing
Compound: A roller brush is used to apply a
curing compound to nine cylinders per
consumer instructions. The coating dries
outdoors after application. Concur WB
(Curing Compound) is sprayed onto fresh
concrete as a curing compound. Concur WB
is a water-based concrete curing agent using
a low-viscosity wax emulsion as its
foundation which was used like Figure 7.
When it dries, the delivered white emulsion
turns into a transparent film. When first
applied to a newly cementitious surface, the
emulsion splits, forming a continuous, non-
penetrating white coating. When this dries, a
constant, transparent coating acts as a barrier
to moisture escape, resulting in better
cement hydration, increased durability, and
decreased shrinkage. The curing compound
is applied immediately after surface water is
removed from the concrete. No compound
should be used if bleed water is present on
the concrete. To spray thoroughly, the
nozzle is held 450 mm from the concrete
surface and moved back and forth. The
compound's fugitive white hue indicates
complete coverage during application. Pump
pressure is essential for consistent, precise
spraying.
After spraying the chemical, no
water is needed to cure it. Unscratched
concrete should be left until it can handle
surface loads. Stepping on the film has to be
avoided until it dries. A broken film might
reduce effectiveness, so it should be
protected.
After demolding, concure WB can be
applied to freshly cured concrete. The
concrete surface must be moist, not dry, to
allow film production and prevent
compound absorption, discoloration, and
removal issues.
The ideal covering rate is 3.5–5.0
square meters per liter (0.200–0.285).
Coverage rates outside this range can be
adjusted to meet project requirements.
Figure 7: Curing using water-based curing compound.

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Curing by Impervious Plastic Paper: It's a
standard construction technique to cure
concrete with impermeable plastic paper to
ensure it holds moisture and cures properly.
Immediately following the placement of the
concrete, this impermeable plastic covering
is applied to control temperature, limit
moisture loss, and shield the surface from
outside forces. Concrete properly cured
using impermeable plastic paper has
increased strength, less cracking, and
improved overall durability, making the final
product more visually appealing and sturdy.
In this method, shown in Figure 8, we
started the procedure by demolding nine
cylinders when the casting deadline had
passed. We weighed each cylinder after
demolding and carefully recorded the
dimensions. As a standard procedure, we
numbered every cylinder individually,
according to the chosen curing technique,
and etched the casting date outside every
cylinder. Then, following the steps described
in Method 4, we wrapped these nine
cylinders with waterproof paper. This
systematic approach made accurate tracking
and procedure compliance possible
throughout the trial, guaranteeing that every
cylinder was subjected to the designated
curing technique.
Figure 8: Curing by waterproof plastic paper.
Compressive Strength Test
In structural engineering, the
compressive strength test of concrete
cylinders is crucial. The cylinder must be
continuously loaded until it approaches the
point of structural collapse for this
evaluation to be completed. The concrete
compression testing procedure carefully
removed the specimens from the curing
tank, and excess surface water was wiped
off. To ensure uniform load application and
distribution, the specimens were positioned
vertically on the platform of a compression
testing machine, with pad caps placed at
both ends of the cylinders. It was essential to
verify that the loading platforms were in
complete contact with the top of each
cylinder before initiating the load
application. The load was applied
continuously and uniformly, avoiding abrupt
shocks at a consistent rate of 315 kN per
minute until the specimens failed under the
applied pressure. The maximum load
sustained by each specimen during this
process was diligently recorded. This entire
testing sequence was repeated for the
remaining two specimens, ensuring accurate
and reliable data collection for evaluating
the compressive strength of the concrete
samples. Figure 9 shows the loading stage of
the compression test.

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Figure 9: Compressive strength test.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Sieve Analysis of Aggregates
In-depth sieve analyses were carried
out independently for each kind of aggregate
to describe the particle size distributions of
fine and coarse aggregates. The analysis's
findings discovered the fineness modulus
values for these aggregates. It was found that
the fineness modulus of the fine aggregates
was 2.7. However, a fineness modulus value
of 7.446 was obtained from the sieve
analysis of the coarse aggregates,
demonstrating the size distribution of the
bigger particles in this group. These fineness
modulus values make the choice and
proportioning of aggregates for concrete
mixes easier, providing insightful
information on fine and coarse aggregates'
gradation and particle size properties. The
fineness modulus values offer crucial
information for optimizing concrete mix
designs to ensure that the final concrete has
the appropriate workability, strength, and
performance.
Compressive Strength Test Values for Curing by Water Pond for Different Curing
Periods
Figure 10: Compressive strength for curing by water pond.

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The above graph in Figure 10:
Compressive strength for curing by water
pondFigure 10 shows the compressive
strength values of concrete specimens cured
for seven, fourteen, and twenty-eight days
by immersion in a water pond. The data
indicates a noteworthy pattern in the
increase in the strength of concrete.
Three distinct sets of specimens were
found to have compressive strength values
of 2596 psi, 2585 psi, and 2632 psi at the
seven-day curing mark. This suggests that
during the first curing time, the concrete had
already demonstrated a significant degree of
strength.
When the duration of the cure period
was prolonged to a span of 14 days, there
was a discernible increase in compressive
strength. For the 14-day curing period, the
recorded readings were 2673 psi, 2714 psi,
and 2785 psi. This implies that during this
time, the strength of concrete continued to
increase dramatically.
At the 28-day curing stage, the
compressive strength increased most
notably. The figures for compressive
strength increased significantly to 2835,
2917, and 2953 psi. This indicates that the
strength growth of the concrete was
maintained and increased dramatically after
the 14-day interval.
The data shows a discernible
increase in compressive strength as curing
times increase. The values for the 28-day
compressive strength were the greatest,
followed by those for the 14-day and 7-day
periods. This pattern emphasizes how
extended curing times are necessary to get
the best possible strength and durability in
concrete, which is essential for various
structural and building applications.
Compressive Strength Test Values for Curing by Water Sprinkling for Different Curing
Periods
Figure 11: Compressive strength for curing by water sprinkling.
This Figure 11 graph thoroughly
summarizes the compressive strength values
of concrete samples that were cured by
sprinkling water on them for seven, fourteen,
and twenty-eight days. At the seven-day
curing mark, three specimens recorded
compressive strength values of 2262 psi,
2038 psi, and 2060 psi. The preliminary data

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indicates that following a week of curing
underwater sprinkling circumstances, the
concrete showed comparatively lower
strength values.
There was a discernible increase in
compressive strength as the curing period
was increased to 14 days, and the 14-day
curing period yielded readings of 2307 psi,
2296 psi, and 2284 psi, indicating a
significant increase in strength in
comparison to the 7-day results.
The 28-day curing stage was when
the compressive strength increased the most
significantly. Compressive strength values
increased dramatically to 2548 psi, 2529 psi,
and 2625 psi, indicating significant strength
development throughout the prolonged
curing period.
According to the statistics, compact
strength development follows a distinct and
steady tendency. The values for compressive
strength after 28 days were the highest,
followed by those after 14 days and finally
those after 7 days. Since the concrete
continues to develop over time as it is
sprinkled with water, this pattern emphasizes
the value of prolonged curing times.
Compressive Strength Test Values for Curing by Using a Water-Based Curing
Compound for Different Curing Periods
Figure 12: Compressive strength for curing using water-based curing compound.
The Figure 12 graph shows the
compressive strength of concrete specimens
that were cured by application of a water-
based curing compound for 7, 14, and 28
days. Three specimens had compressive
strengths of 2400, 2419, and 2480 psi after 7
days of curing. After one week of water-
sprinkling curing, the concrete showed
moderate strength. Compressive strength
improved after 14 days of curing. Strength
increased significantly from 7-day data to
2722, 2647, and 2705 psi after 14 days of
cure. The 28-day curing stage increased
compressive strength most. The extended
curing period increased compressive
strength to 2892, 2924, and 2882 psi.
Overall, compressive strength
development is steady. The 28-day
compressive strength values were highest,
followed by the 14-day and 7-day values.
This trend emphasizes the significance of
extended curing periods.

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Compressive Strength Test Values for Curing by Using Impervious Plastic Paper for
Different Curing Periods
Figure 13: Compressive strength for curing by waterproof plastic paper.
The Figure 13 graph displays the
compressive strength of concrete specimens
cured with impervious plastic paper for 7,
14, and 28 days. Three specimens had
compressive strengths of 2257, 2400, and
2431 psi after 7 days of curing. Compared to
the 7-day results, the 14-day curing process
boosted strength to 2589, 2593, and 2702
psi. The 28-day curing stage increased
compressive strength most. Over the long
curing period, compressive strength
increased to 2849, 2783, and 2804 psi.
Overall, Compressive strength
increases steadily. 28-day compressive
strength was highest, followed by 14- and 7-
day values. Impervious plastic paper
strengthens and matures concrete, as shown
here.
7 Days Compressive Strength Test Values for Different Curing Methods
Figure 14: 7 days compressive strength values for different curing methods.

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This graph in Figure 14 illustrates
that of the four different curing methods
used in our experiment, curing by water
pond achieves the maximum compressive
strength value of 2604 psi after an initial
curing period of seven days. This value is
followed by applying a water-based curing
compound, curing with waterproof plastic
paper, and curing by sprinkling water with
compressive strength values corresponding
to 2433 psi, 2363 psi, and 2121 psi.
14 Days Compressive Strength Test Values for Different Curing Methods
Figure 15: 14-day compressive strength values for different curing methods.
The Figure 15 graph presented
depicts the results of our experiment,
showing the impact of four distinct curing
procedures. Notably, the curing method with
a water pond demonstrates the highest
recorded compressive strength value of 2724
psi following an initial curing period of
seven days. The subsequent step involves
the application of a water-based curing
compound, the use of waterproof plastic
paper for curing, and the sprinkling of water
for curing, resulting in compressive strength
values of 2691 psi, 2628 psi, and 2296 psi,
respectively.
28 Days Compressive Strength Test Values for Different Curing Methods
Figure 16: 28-day compressive strength values for different curing methods.

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The Figure 16 graph illustrates our
experimental study's outcomes,
demonstrating the effects of four alternative
healing methods. It is worth mentioning that
the curing technique with a water pond has
the highest documented compressive
strength measurement of 2902 psi after a
preliminary curing duration of seven days.
The succeeding procedure entails the
utilization of a water-based curing
compound, the employment of impermeable
plastic paper for curing, and the application
of water for curing, leading to compressive
strength measurements of 2899 psi, 2812
psi, and 2568 psi, correspondingly.
Comparison of Average Compressive Strength Values for Different Curing Methods
Figure 17: Average compressive strength values for different curing methods.
This Figure 17 graph shows the
average compressive strength values for
different curing methods. From the depicted
values, it is clear that curing by water pond
accumulates the maximum average
compressive strength of 2743 psi. Curing by
applying a water-based curing compound
achieves an average compressive strength of
2675 psi, followed by a waterproof plastic
paper with 2601 psi, and lastly, curing by
water sprinkling with 2328 psi.
CONCLUSION
By examining various curing
techniques on the compressive strength of
concrete yielded significant results. Out of
the four curing procedures adapted in this
experiment, immersion in a water pond
consistently demonstrated the most
important values for compressive strength.
The findings underscore the efficacy of
immersing concrete in water during the
curing process, as it creates a moisture-laden
setting that promotes ideal hydration and
enhances strength development. Specimens
cured with a water-based curing compound
exhibited a similar level of compressive
strength, although lower than that of curing
by water ponds, suggesting that these
compounds play a favorable function in
enhancing the strength of concrete and using
impervious plastic paper for curing likewise
demonstrated notable enhancements in
strength. However, the observed increases
were marginally inferior to those of the most
effective techniques. Finally, the process of
curing using water sprinkling, although it
still enhances the strength of concrete,
exhibited comparatively lower compressive
strength values than the alternative ways.
The results emphasize the necessity

Experimental Study on Comparative Analysis Imtiaz Ibne Azad et al.
52
© MAT Journals 2024. All Rights Reserved
of carefully choosing a suitable curing
technique in concrete construction
endeavors. The selection of the curing
technique can substantially impact the
eventual compressive strength and overall
performance of concrete. As this research
exemplifies, curing through immersion in a
water pond is the most productive strategy
for attaining enhanced concrete strength.
Nevertheless, it is crucial to carefully
evaluate the curing procedure based on the
project's unique requirements, prevailing
environmental conditions, and practical
considerations. This is necessary to achieve
the desired qualities of the concrete and
assure its long-term durability.
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CITE THIS ARTICLE
Imtiaz Ibne Azad et al (2024). Experimental Study on Comparative Analysis of
Different Concrete Curing Methods with a Focus on Compressive Strength, Journal of
Construction and Building Materials Engineering, 10(3), 37-52.