Influence of rapid curing methods on concrete microstructure and properties: A review

Along with the construction industrialization degree, precast concrete is being utilized more and more frequently in construction to speed up the process and guarantee the quality of structural concrete. In order to make the precast concrete reach the required strength quickly and speed up the turnover of formwork, various rapid concrete curing methods emerged. Currently steam curing, direct electric curing, and microwave curing are the widely studied rapid curing methods. Rapid curing methods could promote early strength growth by changing the internal and external temperature and humidity of concrete, but may lead to late strength shrinkage, increased internal micro-cracks, coarsening of pore structure and other problems. Based on the comprehensive analysis of the curing principles of the three rapid curing methods, this paper reviews the effects of the three rapid curing methods on the hydration process, properties, and microscopic pore structure of concrete. The shortcomings of different rapid curing methods, and the topics of future researchs are also included.