Curing Building Codes & Rules
- Curing Tools™ simplifies the National Construction Code (NCC) with interactive graphics, including deemed to comply & best practices.
Membrane Curing
- A protective layer is spread on the Concrete Surface[1]
Membrane Curing METHODS
NCC 2022 V2
- Formwork
- Leave formworks in place to trap moisture
- Often efficient & cost effective method
- Cover exposed surfaces of the concrete with plastic sheeting
- Allows easy addition of insulation during cold weather
- Keep stripping time consistent to avoid hydration-related color variations
- Plastic Sheeting
- ≥ 0.10mm thk
- Place immediately without causing any damage to surfaces
- Secure to prevent getting blown away
- Colour of sheeting
- Hot weather - light coloured
- Cold weather - black
- If specific concrete colour - clear plastic (to avoid staining)
- Curing Compounds
- As per Manufacturer's Recommendations
- Use in well-ventilated spaces
- May be brushed, sprayed, or squeegeed directly onto concrete surface
- Application time is critical for maximum performance
- Compounds may affect the 'bond' of applied finishes
Informative
- A protective layer is spread on the Concrete SurfaceInformative
Concrete Benchmark
Accelerated Curing
- Designed to gain Concrete Strength at a quicker timeframe[1]
- Improves quality for special products
Accelerated Curing METHODS
NCC 2022 V2
- Steam Curing (Low Pressure)
- Applying saturated steam to concrete in enclosed chambers or under covers
- Speeds up strength gain
- Maximum temperature (usually 70°C) depends on the cement type
- Widely used on precast concrete for faster reuse of molds
- Autoclaving (High Pressure Steam Curing)
- Application of High Pressure Steam to concrete
- 160 to 190°C temperature &
- Pressure of 6 to 20 atmospheres
- Expensive & specialized process
- Used to manufacture Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) products
Informative
- Designed to gain Concrete Strength at a quicker timeframeInformative
- Improves quality for special products
Why Cure Concrete?
- Affects Concrete strength & durability
Concrete Curing
NCC 2022 V2
Industry Recommendation
Informative
- PurposeIndustry Recommendation
- Predictable strength gain
- Better serviceability and appearance
- Durability & impermeability are increased
- Shrinkage & cracks are reduced
- 23°C Ideal curing temperatureInformative
Formwork Stripping Time
NCC 2022 V2
All Building Classes
NCC 2022 S1, B1D4, HP 4.2.10 [2019 Sch 5, B1.4, 3.2.3.1]
May 2022
AS 3600:2018, 1.1
NCC 2022 Vol 1, B1D4 (b)
NCC 2022 HP, 4.2.10
AS 3610.1:2018, C2
AS 3600:2018, 17.6.2.4
- Concrete building elements constructed to NCCAS 3600:2018, 1.1NCC 2022 Vol 1, B1D4 (b) & StandardNCC 2022 HP, 4.2.10
- Stripping FormworkAS 3610.1:2018, C2AS 3600:2018, 17.6.2.4
- Minimum Stripping Time (see image)
- Ensures structure remains secure from collapse
- Prevents damage which might affect structural performance
- Plan & control transfer of loads from formwork / falsework to the permanent structure
- Affects Concrete strength & durability
Water Curing
- ≤ 5°C water temperature[1]
- Keeps the concrete moist for proper strength development
- Prevents surface cracking & ensures uniform hardening
Water Curing METHODS
NCC 2022 V2
- Ponding
- Best for flat surfaces like floors or pavements
- A dam is built around the area, & water is added to create a shallow pool
- Work with clay soil for dike or berm around the slab
- Ensure dam material doesn’t stain the concrete
- Simple, cost-effective, & maintains even temperature
- Sprinkling or Fog Curing
- Fine sprays or mist keep the concrete moist & cool, especially in hot weather
- Control with a timer system
- Challenges
- High water usage, requiring drainage or recycling
- Wind may disrupt coverage; supervision is needed
- Wet Coverings
- Use water-absorbent cloth such as Hessian, Burlap, & Cotton Mats
- Fabrics are wetted regularly & work well on flat or vertical surfaces
- Apply as soon as the concrete hardens sufficiently, to avoid damage
- Advantage: Even moisture distribution, reduces evaporation
- Caution: Avoid staining from water impurities or covering materials
Informative
- ≤ 5°C water temperatureInformative
- Keeps the concrete moist for proper strength development
- Prevents surface cracking & ensures uniform hardening
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