Effects of curing temperature on cement-stabilized soils

Abstract

Curing temperature is widely known for its effects on the strength of various cementitious-based civil engineering materials, including in stabilized soils. Curing materials at different temperatures can cause negative or positive impacts on the mechanical properties of these materials due to the effect of temperature on hydration behavior, hydration rate, and ion exchange. This paper aims to better understand these factors in geoengineering applications. In particular, the discussion focuses on the effects of curing temperatures ranging from below freezing to 50 °C on the hydration process of cement paste ( i.e. , hydration rate, mineral dissolution, compressive strength) and the hydration process and strengthening mechanism of cement-stabilized soils. Finally, an informative table listing the advantages and disadvantages of the influences of each temperature level on these materials is provided as a summary of the findings from the literature.