Concrete Compressive Strength when using different types of curing in Cajamarca

Abstract

In the construction industry, concrete is the most widely used material because of its versatility, strength, and durability, playing a crucial role in infrastructure and building projects. Its quality depends on multiple factors, including the curing method, which ensures proper hydration of the cement and optimizes its structural performance. Curing is essential to ensure the formation of a homogeneous internal microstructure, which improves compressive strength and minimizes internal defects. The research aimed to compare the compressive strength of concrete subjected to four curing methods: immersion, irrigation, waterproofing admixture (Sika Antisol S) and plastic coating, under the climatic conditions of Cajamarca. This analysis provides valuable data that improve curing techniques, optimizing concrete strength in similar contexts. An experimental design with a quantitative approach was used, employing 36 cylindrical concrete specimens, evaluated at intervals of 7, 14 and 28 days. The results at 28 days indicated that immersion curing presented the highest strength with 27,27 MPa, followed by admixture curing with 27,12 MPa, irrigation curing with 25,20 MPa and plastic coating with 22,58 MPa. It is concluded that immersion curing stood out as the most effective method, demonstrating superior performance with respect to the other methods evaluated. However, this method cannot be used in real structures; therefore, the use of curing additives is suggested as a curing method.