Internal curing of concrete using biodegradable water-absorptive polymer gels

Abstract

Appropriate wet curing of concrete at early ages can reduce autogenous shrinkage and increase strength development. This study examined biodegradable water-absorptive polymer gel as an internal curing agent applicable to mortar and concrete. It was shown that, when an appropriate water-absorption capability of polymer gel was selected, the compressive strength of concrete increased slightly and autogenous shrinkage strain reduced, confirming the applicability of the polymer gel as an internal curing agent.