Work

Traditional and Advanced Curing Strategies for Concrete Materials: A Systematic Review of Mechanical Performance, Sustainability, and Future Directions

Year: 2025

Type: review

Abstract: Curing plays a fundamental role in determining the mechanical performance, durability, and sustainability of concrete structures. Traditional curing practices, such as water and air curing, are widely used but often limited by long durations, high water demand, and reduced effectiveness under extreme climatic conditions. In response, advanced curing methods such as steam, microwave, electric, autoclave, and accelerated carbonation have been developed to accelerate hydration, refine pore structures, and enhance durability. This review critically examines the performance of both conventional and advanced curing strategies across a range of concrete systems. Findings show that microwave curing achieves up to 85–95% of 28-day wet-cured strength within 24 h, whilst autoclave curing enhances early strength by 40–60%. Electric curing reduces energy demand by approximately 40% compared to steam curing, and carbonation curing lowers carbon dioxide emissions by 30–50% through carbon sequestration. While steam and autoclave curing provide rapid early strength, they may compromise long-term durability through microcracking and increased porosity. No single method was identified as universally optimal; the effectiveness depends on the mix design, application, and environmental conditions. The review highlights future opportunities in smart curing systems, integrating Internet of Things (IoT), sensor technologies, and AI-driven predictive control to enable real-time optimisation of curing conditions. Such innovations represent a critical pathway for improving concrete performance while addressing sustainability targets in the building and construction industry.

Source: Applied Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/app152011055

Authors: Robert Haigh, Omid Ameri Sianaki

Institution: Victoria University

Language: English

Topic: Concrete and Cement Materials Research

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896