Materials 2015, 8, 5537-5553; doi:10.

3390/ma8085261
OPEN ACCESS

materials
ISSN 1996-1944
www.mdpi.com/journal/materials
Article

Early-Age Strength of Ultra-High Performance Concrete in

Various Curing Conditions
Jong-Sup Park 1 , Young Jin Kim 1 , Jeong-Rae Cho 1 and Se-Jin Jeon 2, *

1
Structural Engineering Research Institute, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology,
Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do 411-712, Korea; E-Mails: jspark1@kict.re.kr (J.-S.P.);
yjkim@kict.re.kr (Y.J.K.); chojr@kict.re.kr (J.-R.C.)
2
Department of Civil Systems Engineering, Ajou Univeristy, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do 443-749, Korea

* Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: conc@ajou.ac.kr;

Tel.: +82-31-219-2406; Fax: +82-31-219-1613.

Academic Editor: Luciano Feo

Received: 11 July 2015 / Accepted: 7 August 2015 / Published: 24 August 2015

Abstract: The strength of Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) can be sensitively

affected by the curing method used. However, in contrast to the precast plant production
of UHPC where a standard high-temperature steam curing is available, an optimum curing
condition is rarely realized with cast-in-place UHPC. Therefore, the trend of the compressive
strength development of UHPC was experimentally investigated in this study, with a
focus on early-age strength by assuming the various curing conditions anticipated on site.
Concrete specimens were cured under different conditions with variables including curing
temperature, delay time before the initiation of curing, duration of curing, and moisture
condition. Several conditions for curing are proposed that are required when the cast-in-place
UHPC should gain a specified strength at an early age. It is expected that the practical use of
UHPC on construction sites can be expedited through this study.

Keywords: Ultra-High Performance Concrete; curing; strength; cast-in-place

1. Introduction

Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) has been one of the most active research fields of concrete
recently, because it can contribute to the longer life and economic efficiency of structures [1,2]. Recent
extensive studies carried out on UHPC have further improved the quality of high strength or high
Materials 2015, 8 5538

performance concrete [24]. While UHPC has superior mechanical properties in terms of compressive
and tensile strengths, ductility, and toughness, as well as high flowability and durability, strict quality
control is required to ensure these target standards for its production. The term UHPC usually covers
various types of cementitious composite materials developed for similar purposes. Similarly to ordinary
concrete, UHPC can be either fabricated as precast members at a plant or cast in-place at a construction
site. Apart from fully cast-in-place UHPC structures, although a precast-type UHPC structure is planned
for stable quality control and acceleration of construction [5], some components, such as the joints of
precast UHPC segments, still need to be cast in-place [6]. These cast-in-place components of a UHPC
structure can significantly affect the overall quality of the structure and construction speed, since they
are cast possibly under limited and unfavorable conditions on the site. Another important application of
cast-in-place UHPC is the rehabilitation of existing structures [1,7].
The quality of cast-in-place UHPC can be considerably affected by the mixing, placing, and curing
methods used. Some projects have been conducted to extend the use of UHPC to the field, focusing on
cast-in-place technologies [1,7,8]. One of the difficulties of casting the UHPC on site is the need for a
specially-designed mixer for UHPC that is usually used in a laboratory or a plant. As one of the strategies
to cope with this problem, a portable mixer optimized for the UHPC mixture has been developed because
the quality of the UHPC using a conventional mixer may be subject to large variation [8]. Another
important factor that affects the quality of cast-in-place UHPC is the curing method. Possible curing
methods on site may differ from those of precast UHPC segments fabricated in the ideal conditions of a
plant. Generally, in precast UHPC, a standard steam curing method is adopted to obtain rapid strength
development. However, in cast-in-place UHPC, which is the main focus of this study, curing methods
are often limited in terms of curing temperature, curing period, and moisture condition.
Several studies have focused on determining whether a specified compressive strength of UHPC can
be attained at 28 days under normal moist curing without heat treatment [1,3,7]. In some cases, however,
the specified strength needs to be obtained within an earlier age of UHPC to accelerate construction
speed. Therefore, this study presents experimental results on the characteristics of the early-age strength
development of UHPC in various curing conditions conceivable at the site. Regarding the terminology
for the early age, there is not a clear definition of how short the early age of concrete is. However,
7-day compressive strength, which was determined as the focus of this study by referring to the days
required for standard steam curing in plant production, can be regarded as the early-age strength in
comparison to 28-day strength that is usually adopted for the design purposes. Factors considered in the
experimental program include curing temperature, delay time before the initiation of curing, duration
of curing, and moisture condition. The strengths were compared with those of the specimens cured
by standard high-temperature steam. Through the analysis of the test results, several requirements for
curing are proposed that are required when the specified strength of UHPC should be attained in an early
age even though it is cast in-place.

2. Curing of UHPC

2.1. Development of K-UHPC

For the mix design of UHPC, the superior mechanical properties need to be considered, such as
strength, ductility, and toughness, in addition to the high flowability of fresh concrete and durability.
rength, ductility, and toughness, in addition to the high flowability of fresh concrete and durabilit
herefore, various mix proportions of UHPC have been proposed, so far, depending on the targ
operties. The K-UHPC developed by the Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Buildin
Materials 2015, 8 5539
echnology is the main focus in this study [4]. Figure 1 shows the schematic composition of K-UHP
nd Table 1 presents the specific mix proportion of the K-UHPC which is expressed as a ratio of mas
Therefore, various mix proportions of UHPC have been proposed, so far, depending on the target
he mixture consists
properties. TheofK-UHPC
cement, silica fume,
developed filling
by the Korea powder,
Institute fine
of Civil aggregate,
Engineering shrinkage
and Building reducing agen
Technology
xpansive isagent,
the mainsuperplasticizer,
focus in this study and steel fibers.
[4]. Figure Coarse
1 shows the aggregates
schematic composition areofnot included
K-UHPC in the
and Table 1 mixtur
he cement presents the specific
in Table 1 ismix proportionPortland
Ordinary of the K-UHPC whichSilica
cement. is expressed
fume as aused
ratio of
formass. The mixture
K-UHPC requires th
consists of cement, silica fume, filling powder, fine
ecific surface area of more than 150,000 cm2/gaggregate, and SiO shrinkage reducing agent, expansive agent,
2 content of more than 96%. The fillin
superplasticizer, and steel fibers. Coarse aggregates are not included in the mixture. The cement in
owder hasTable
the 1average particle size of 10 m and SiO2 content
is Ordinary Portland cement. Silica fume used for
of more than 96%. Fine aggregate use
K-UHPC requires the specific surface area of
r K-UHPC more isthanlimited
150,000 cmto 2 /g
silica
and SiOsand with the diameter of less than 0.5 mm. The glycol-base
2 content of more than 96%. The filling powder has the average particle

rinkage size
reducing
of 10 magent
and SiOand calcium
2 content sulfa
of more thanaluminate-based
96%. Fine aggregateexpansive
used for K-UHPC agentisare added
limited to cope wi
to silica
sandconcrete;
rinkage of with the diameter of less than
in particular, the 0.5 mm. The glycol-based
autogenous shrinkage shrinkage reducing agent
that is induced and calcium
by self-desiccation whe
sulfa aluminate-based expansive agent are added to cope with shrinkage of concrete; in particular, the
e water-to-binder ratio is adjusted to be very low to attain high strength. Also, polycarboxylic acid-base
autogenous shrinkage that is induced by self-desiccation when the water-to-binder ratio is adjusted to
perplasticizer
be veryislow used to ensure
to attain high flowability
high strength. even with
Also, polycarboxylic a verysuperplasticizer
acid-based low water-to-binder ratio. The ste
is used to ensure
bers havehigh
theflowability
diametereven of 0.2
withmm and
a very lowthe tensile strength
water-to-binder ratio. of
Themore than have
steel fibers 2,000theMPa. The
diameter of length
0.2 of th
bers can mm be and the tensile
chosen amongstrength13,of 16
moreand than 20
2,000mmMPa. The length of
depending onthethe
fibers can be chosen
required among
tensile 13,
characteristic
16 and 20 mm depending on the required tensile characteristics. The binder in the water-to-binder ratio
he binder in the water-to-binder ratio in Table 1 indicates cement plus silica fume. The desig
in Table 1 indicates cement plus silica fume. The design recommendations for K-UHPC [4] provide
commendations for K-UHPC
detailed information on each[4]material.
provide detailed information on each material.

Figure 1.Figure 1. Composition

Composition of K-Ultra-HighPerformance
of K-Ultra-High Performance Concrete
Concrete(K-UHPC) (not to scale).
(K-UHPC) (not to scale).
Table 1. Mix proportion of K-Ultra-High Performance Concrete (K-UHPC) (ratio of mass).
Table 1. Mix proportion of K-Ultra-High Performance Concrete (K-UHPC) (ratio of mass).
Item Value Item Value Item Value
Item Value Item Value Item Value
Water-to-binder ratio 0.2 Filling powder 0.3 Expansive agent
Water-to-binder ratio 0.2 Filling powder 0.3 Expansive agent0.075 0.075
Cement 1 Fine aggregate 1.1 Superplasticizer 0.018
Cement 1 Fine aggregate 1.1 Superplasticizer 0.018
Silica fume 0.25 Shrinkage reducing agent 0.01 Steel fiber (volume fraction) 1.5%2%
Silica fume 0.25 Shrinkage reducing agent 0.01 Steel fiber (volume fraction) 1.5%2%
Materials 2015, 8 5540

The specified compressive strength, cracking strength, and tensile strength of K-UHPC are as high
as 180, 9.5 and 13 MPa, respectively. In order to ensure these target strengths, initial curing and
high-temperature steam curing are recommended in sequence [4]. The initial curing is maintained at
20 C for 1248 h, with 24 h recommended, immediately after casting. The following high-temperature
steam curing is performed at 90 C for 2472 h, typically, with 48 h recommended. It was confirmed
that strengths that exceed the specified strengths can be obtained even at an early age immediately
after curing if the above curing criteria are fulfilled. These criteria were introduced by taking into
consideration the curing of precast members. However, when the K-UHPC is cast in-place, the criteria
are barely met in many cases, as a result of the difficulty in controlling the temperature and moisture
due to the limited circumstances of the site. This study focuses on the minimum curing conditions of
cast-in-place K-UHPC (in circumstances where standard steam curing is not available on site) that are
required to ensure a similar target strength to that of precast K-UHPC at an early age. Other properties of
K-UHPC, such as shrinkage behavior, including the dominant autogenous shrinkage, were investigated
in the previous studies [9].

2.2. Previous Studies

Since the concept of concrete maturity was established by Carino et al. [10], the importance of
curing temperature and age in strength development has been generally accepted. This is the reason
why the high-temperature steam curing is preferred in a precast concrete plant. In UHPC, however,
an additional closer relationship exists between curing temperature and strength than that in normal
concrete, because most UHPC includes a large amount of silica fume due to the various advantageous
characteristics [2,11,12], such as a considerable strength increase. Silica fume is transformed to calcium
silicate hydrate by reacting with calcium hydroxide through the pozzolanic reaction. This type of reaction
tends to be substantially activated under a high temperature [2,11], which is why it is recommended for
most UHPC to be cured under a high temperature to ensure rapid strength development. On the other
hand, the moisture condition of UHPC containing silica fume should be given special attention in order to
cope with the dominant self-desiccation [1,11]. The Silica Fume Association recommends moist curing
of the concrete containing the silica fume for at least 7 days [12]. Based on these previous studies,
the control of curing temperature and moisture condition would have a crucial effect on the strength
development of cast-in-place UHPC.
However, it is usually difficult to apply an ideal curing scheme in terms of temperature and moisture
when the UHPC is cast on site, because the construction site has an inferior condition to a laboratory or a
precast concrete plant; a realistic curing scheme should, thus, be devised on site. Some researchers have
focused on determining whether the UHPC can attain the specified compressive strength at 28 days when
subjected to ambient or room temperature and sufficient moisture for a certain period [1,3]. However,
sometimes the specified strength needs to be ensured within a shorter period in order to advance the
completion date of the structure, even under inferior site conditions, as investigated in this study.
Ishii et al. [5] demonstrated that the early-age strength of the UHPC that they applied to a pedestrian
bridge was reduced from 215 to 147 MPa when the steam curing temperature was lowered from 90
to 70 C. Koh et al. [13] reported the results of 20 C curing of K-UHPC as shown in Figure 2.
It was observed that 190 MPa was attained at 91 days under moist curing, which is similar to the
Materials 2015, 8 5

observed that 190 MPa was attained at 91 days under moist curing, which is similar to the strength
Materials 2015, 8 5541
expected immediately after 90 C steam curing, while only 60% of 190 MPa was attained at 7 days. In
comparison, only 80% of 190 MPa was achieved even at 91 days under a dry condition, demonstrating
strength expected immediately after 90 C steam curing, while only 60% of 190 MPa was attained at
the importance of moistureonly
7 days. In comparison, in curing.
80% ofAhlborn
190 MPaetwas al. achieved
[14] reported
even atthat
91 the
daysstrength
under a of dryUHPC without
condition,
the 90 C steam curing
demonstrating was reduced
the importance to 69%
of moisture and 83%
in curing. of theetspecified
Ahlborn strengththat
al. [14] reported at the
7 and 28 days,
strength
respectively.
of UHPCAdditionally,
without the 90they studied
C steam the effect
curing of delay
was reduced to time
69% before
and 83% theofsteam curing and
the specified concluded
strength at
that 7a delay
and 28time
days,ofrespectively.
even as longAdditionally,
as 10 or 24they days did not
studied the significantly
effect of delay affect
time the strength
before after the
the steam
steamcuring
curing. Schachinger
and concluded that et al. [15]
a delay time analyzed
of even as the
longdegree
as 10 orof24hydration
days did not using nuclear affect
significantly magnetic
the strength
resonance after the of
and strength steam
UHPC curing. Schachinger
in terms [15] analyzedranging
et al.temperatures
of curing the degree fromof 20
hydration
to 90 using
C. They
nuclear magnetic resonance and strength of UHPC in terms of curing temperatures
showed that the gradual increase of the degree of hydration of silica fume in the specimen cured ranging from 20 to at a
90 C.low
relatively Theytemperature
showed that the gradual
delayed theincrease of the
specified degree of
strength hydration of by
development silica
asfume
muchin astheseveral
specimenyears.
cured at a relatively low temperature delayed the specified strength development by as much as several
Nakayama et al. [16] also showed that the early-age strength of UHPC decreased as the curing
years. Nakayama et al. [16] also showed that the early-age strength of UHPC decreased as the curing
temperature lowered. Matsubara et al. [6] applied a heating system that can realize 40 or60 C during
temperature lowered. Matsubara et al. [6] applied a heating system that can realize 40 or 60 C during
curing of the cast-in-place joint components of a precast UHPC. The precast UHPC used attained
curing of the cast-in-place joint components of a precast UHPC. The precast UHPC used attained
180 180
MPaMPawith a curing temperature of 85 C and duration of 30 h. The same strength level was
with a curing temperature of 85 C and duration of 30 h. The same strength level was achieved
achieved
even even
in the in the cast-in-place
cast-in-place componentscomponents with temperature
with a curing a curing temperature
of 40 or 60of C40maintained
or 60 C for
maintained
7 days. for
7 days. Honma
Honma et al.et[17]
al. compared
[17] compared the strength
the strength development
development of UHPCofcuredUHPC cured
at 20 and at4020 and 40 C with that at
C with that at 90 C
90 C steam
steam curing.
curing. The The difference
difference of strengths
of strengths at each at eachtemperature
curing curing temperature
was significantwas atsignificant at 7 and
7 and 28 days,
28 days, but became
but became less significant
less significant at 91 days.at 91
Thedays. Themechanism
chemical chemical and mechanism and microstructure
microstructure during curing and during
hydration
curing of concrete
and hydration are presented
of concrete in some references
are presented in some[18,19].
references [18,19].

Figure 2. Compressive strength development of K-UHPC with different curing conditions [13].
Figure 2. Compressive strength development of K-UHPC with different curing conditions [13].
3. Curing Tests of UHPC
3. Curing Tests of UHPC
3.1. Test Variables and Preparation of Specimens
3.1. Test Variables and Preparation of Specimens
As discussed previously, the quality of UHPC is largely affected by curing conditions, such as curing
Astemperature
discussedandpreviously, the quality
moisture condition, etc. of UHPCpreparing
However, is largely
the affected by system
steam curing curing onconditions, such as
a construction
curing
sitetemperature and moisture
(which is necessary condition,
for ensuring etc. However,
rapid strength development)preparing theuneconomical
would be steam curing andsystem
involve on a
construction site (which
some difficulties is its
due to necessary
temporary foruse
ensuring rapid strength
during curing development)
and the required would
movability bethe
along uneconomical
casting
place of some
and involve concrete. Therefore,
difficulties dueit to
would be very important
its temporary to determine
use during an the
curing and efficient curing
required method foralong
movability
the casting place of concrete. Therefore, it would be very important to determine an efficient curing
Materials 2015, 8 5542

cast-in-place UHPC by taking into account the site condition, construction period, economy, and required
strength of UHPC.
In this study, the test variables are determined by relaxing the conditions of the prototype curing
method of K-UHPC [4,13], which has been deonstrated to be sufficient for ensuring the specified
compressive strength of 180 MPa immediately after curing. The prototype follows the order of initial
moist curing for 24 h after casting, form removal, and steam moist curing with 90 C for 48 h. As shown
in Table 2, additional conditions considered in this study are: the lower curing temperatures of 20, 40
and 60 C; the duration of the initial curing (also called delay time in this study) that is shortened to
12 h or extended to 48 h; the duration of the main curing (also called curing time or continuing time
in this study) that is shortened to 12 or 24 h; and the type of moist curing conditions. The moisture
conditions during curing are categorized into four types. The enclosed or sealed condition is realized
by tightly wrapping the specimen with polyethylene sheet to ensure that the internal moisture does not
evaporate. A dry condition is provided by a dry heating chamber, while a constant temperature and
humidity chamber as shown in Figure 3 is used to apply the water or steam condition.

Table 2. Variables of curing test.

Curing Temperature ( C) Delay Time (h) Continuing Time (h) Moisture Condition

12
24
20 24 enclosed, water
48
72
12
12 24
48
12
40 24 24
48
12
48 24
48
12 dry, enclosed, water, steam
12 24
48
12
60 24 24
48
12
48 24
48
48
90 24
72
Materials 2015, 8 5543
Materials 2015, 8 7

Figure 3. Constant temperature and humidity chamber.

Figure 3. Constant temperature and humidity chamber.

The target curing temperature of the chamber is attained at a 15 C C increase per hour and the same
rate of temperature variation is applied when descending. The curing time is evaluated based only on
the period
periodofofconstant
constanttemperature.
temperature. Although
Although moisture
moisture is continuously
is continuously supplied duringduring
supplied the initialthe curing
initial
period with
curing period thewith
standard curing method
the standard of K-UHPC,
curing method considering
of K-UHPC, any adverse
considering any site situation,
adverse it is assumed
site situation, it is
in this study
assumed that study
in this the specimen
that the isspecimen
subjectedistosubjected
a dry condition
to a dry during the initial
condition during curing, regardless
the initial curing,of
the form removal
regardless of the formconducted
removal at 12 h after casting.
conducted at 12 h Therefore,
after casting. the Therefore,
initial curing theperiod
initialiscuring
also called
periodthe is
delaycalled
also time in thethis study
delay time because
in thisthe curing
study is notthe
because actually
curingperformed
is not actuallyduring this period.
performed duringIn thethisenclosed
period.
condition,
In however,
the enclosed the specimen
condition, however, is sealed immediately
the specimen after immediately
is sealed the form is removed, after theasform can is be removed,
expected
on can
as site.beFurthermore,
expected on while other moisture
site. Furthermore, conditions
while last onlyconditions
other moisture as long aslast the only
curing as time,
long as thetheenclosed
curing
condition
time, is maintained
the enclosed until the
condition strength is until
is maintained measured at 7 daysissince
the strength this situation
measured at 7 dayscan be easily
since applied
this situation
can be easily
on site. Because applied on site. Because
the purpose the purpose
of this study is to examineof this howstudyclosely
is to examine
the strengthhow attains
closelythe thespecified
strength
attains the specified
compressive compressive
strength within an earlystrength
age, 7-day within an early strengths
compressive age, 7-day are compressive
measured according strengths are
to the
measured
standard test according
methodto[4,20].the standard
The averagetest method
compressive[4,20].strength
The average compressive
is calculated strength the
by averaging is calculated
strengths
by averaging
of the the strengths
three specimens for of the test
each threevariable.
specimens Theforshape
each of testthe
variable.
specimen Theisshape of the with
a cylinder specimen 100 mm is a
cylinder
diameter withand 200 100 mmmmheight diameter and 200to mm
according height according
the relevant specificationsto the relevant
[4,21]. As specifications
will be shown[4,21]. in the
As will be shown
comparison providedin thein comparison
the later part,provided
these areinthe themost
laterwidely-used
part, these are the most widely-used
dimensions, as far as thedimensions,
cylindrical
as far as
shape the cylindrical
is concerned. Althoughshape aisspecimen
concerned. with Although
differenta sizespecimen
was used withindifferent
some previoussize was used in
studies, thesome
size
previous studies,
did not exceed 150themm size in did not exceed
diameter and 300 150 mm mm in in diameter
height at most.andIt300canmm in height atassumed
be sufficiently most. Itthat canthebe
sufficiently assumedofthat
internal temperature thesethesmall-sized
internal temperature
specimens used of these small-sized
in practice, whether specimens used inorpractice,
it is a cylinder a cube,
whether it is adistributed
is uniformly cylinder or a cube, istouniformly
according the ambient distributed according toand,
curing temperature; the ambient
thus, thecuring
effect temperature;
of the shape
and, thus,ofthe
and size effect of on
a specimen thethe
shape and size distribution
temperature of a specimen andon the temperature
related distributionis and
strength development related
negligible.
strength development
The components is negligible.
of K-UHPC were Themixed components
using a dedicatedof K-UHPC mixerwere that mixed using a dedicated
was developed for UHPC mixer
[8].
that was specimens
The test developedwere for UHPC
prepared[8]. by The test specimens
following the related were prepared [4,21]
specifications by following
in terms the related
of placing,
specifications
consolidation, [4,21] in terms
finishing, of placing,
and ensuring consolidation,
plane ends. finishing, and ensuring plane ends.
The test variables
The test variables of ofthis
thiscuring
curingtest testbasically
basicallyincludeincludefour fourcases
casesofof curing
curing temperature,
temperature, threethree
casescases
of
of delay
delay timetimebeforebefore the initiation
the initiation of mainof main
curing, curing, three of
three cases cases
mainofcuring
main time curingandtimefourandcases four cases of
of moisture
moisture
condition.condition.
These are These summarizedare summarized
in Table 2 and in Table
Figure2 4and withFigure 4 with for
explanations explanations for several
several abbreviations.
abbreviations.
In Figure 4, if one In Figure 4, if one
of the letters T, ofM,
the letters
DT and T,CT
M,isDT givenand as itCT is given
is, then the entireas ittestis, variables
then the
entire
relatedtest
to variables
this letterrelated to this letter
are included in the arecorresponding
included in thecase. corresponding
For example, case. T-M-24-48
For example, T-M-24-48
indicates the
indicates
cases thatthe arecases
curedthatforare 48cured for 48from
h starting h starting
24 h afterfrom casting,
24 h after withcasting,
all thewith all the
curing curing
times andtimesmoistureand
moisture
conditionsconditions
included. included.
Materials 2015, 8 5544
Materials 2015, 8 8

Figure 4. Abbreviations of variables of curing test.

Figure 4. Abbreviations of variables of curing test.

Effect of Curing Temperature

3.2. Effect

The average compressive strength of the specimens made with standard steam curing (24 h initial

curing and subsequent 48 h main curing at 90 C) C) was
was 201.0
201.0 MPa
MPa as shown in Table 3, which is 112%
of the specified strength of 180 MPa. The
The test
test results,
results, as affected by various curing temperatures, with
other conditions remaining the same as those of the standard steam curing, are presented in Table 3. As
the curing temperature decreased, the
temperature decreased, the average
average compressive
compressive strengths
strengths also
also reduced,
reduced, which
which results
results in 97%,

76% and 61% of the specified strength for the curing temperatures of 60, 60, 40
40 and
and 20 C, respectively.
20 C, respectively.

Table 3. Compressive
Table Compressive strengths according to curing temperatures (T-S-24-48).
(T-S-24-48).

CompressiveStrength
Compressive Strength(MPa) Average
(MPa) Average CompressiveStandard
Compressive Standard Deviation
Deviation
Variable
Variable Strength (MPa)
#1#1 #2
#2 #3
#3 Strength (MPa) (MPa)(MPa)
2-W-24-48
2-W-24-48 * * 116.7
116.7 110.2
110.2 101.0
101.0 109.3
109.3 6.44 6.44
4-S-24-48
4-S-24-48 142.3
142.3 133.6
133.6 133.0
133.0 136.3
136.3 4.25 4.25
6-S-24-48
6-S-24-48 179.9
179.9 170.9
170.9 171.4
171.4 174.1
174.1 4.13 4.13
9-S-24-48
9-S-24-48 200.6
200.6 201.5
201.5 200.8
200.8 201.0
201.0 0.39 0.39
** Water
Water curing
curing is
is provided
provided instead
instead of
of steam
steam curing
curing in
in this
this case.
case.

Figure
Figure 55 shows
shows the the characteristics
characteristics ofof strength
strength development
development according
according to to curing
curing temperature
temperature and and
moisture condition with other conditions remaining the same. The compressive
moisture condition with other conditions remaining the same. The compressive strength was proportional strength was
proportional to the curingregardless
to the curing temperature, temperature,
of theregardless of the moisture
moisture condition. Overall, condition. Overall,
the enclosed the enclosed
condition resulted
condition resulted in fairly good strength development when compared with other moisture
in fairly good strength development when compared with other moisture conditions, especially at lower conditions,
especially
temperatures,at although
lower temperatures, althoughwere
only passive measures onlytaken
passive measures
to prevent were taken
the evaporation to prevent
of water the
in concrete.
evaporation
As mentionedofpreviously,
water in concrete.
the enclosedAs condition
mentioned waspreviously,
maintainedtheuntilenclosed condition
the strength was maintained
was measured at 7 days,
until the strength was measured at 7 days, so that the remaining water in the concrete
so that the remaining water in the concrete could be used for hydration and strength development. could be used for
hydration
However, andotherstrength development.
moisture conditions However, other moisture
were maintained conditions
only during were maintained
the curing time, whichonly during
means the
the curing time, which means the specimens were exposed to a dry environment during
specimens were exposed to a dry environment during the remaining time before strength measurement. the remaining
time before strength measurement. As a result, for a curing temperature of 40 C, the highest
As a result, for a curing temperature of 40 C, the highest compressive strength was 149.0 MPa in
compressive strength was 149.0 MPa in the enclosed condition, while the lowest was 131.7 MPa in the dry
the enclosed condition, while the lowest was 131.7 MPa in the dry condition. The strength obtained
condition. The strength obtained from the enclosed condition was approximately 10% higher than that
from the enclosed condition was approximately 10% higher than that of other moisture conditions
of other moisture conditions for the curing temperature of 40 C. Even for higher temperatures, the
for the curing temperature of 40 C. Even for higher temperatures, the strength level in the enclosed
strength level in the enclosed condition was still high as it was only 2.4% and 1.0% lower than the
condition was still high as it was only 2.4% and 1.0% lower than the highest strengths obtained in steam
Materials 2015, 8 9
Materials 2015, 8 5545
highest strengths obtained in steam curing at 60 and 90 C, respectively. Therefore, for strength
curing at 60 of
development 90 C, respectively.
andK-UHPC, it is also Therefore,
effective tofortrystrength development
to maintain the waterof K-UHPC,
containeditinis the
alsoconcrete
effective by
to try to the
wrapping maintain
surface thewith
water containedsuch
a material in theasconcrete by wrapping
polyethylene the surface
sheet instead with a material
of providing suchwater
an active as
polyethylene
supply sheet instead
to the concrete. of providing
In other words, when an active water supply
a continuous supplyto the concrete.
of water In feasible,
is not other words, whenmost
the next a
continuous
effective supply
strategy is of
to water is not
protect the feasible, the next
surface from most effective
evaporation. strategy
A dry is to protect
condition had anthe surfaceeffect
adverse from on
theevaporation.
strength in A alldry condition
ranges had an adverse
of temperature due toeffect
the on the strength
evaporation ofinthe
allwater
rangesneeded
of temperature due to the
for hydration.
evaporation
Therefore, of it the water needed
is apparent that for
thehydration.
strength development of K-UHPC is accelerated as the curing
Therefore, it is apparent that
temperature increases. Although the 7-day the strength development
strength of 60 C of presented
K-UHPC in is accelerated
Figure 5 didas notthe attain
curingthe

temperature
specified increases.strength,
compressive Although thethedifference
7-day strength of 60
between theseC presented in Figure
two strengths was 5notdidconsiderable.
not attain theAs
specified compressive strength, the difference between these two strengths was not considerable. As will
will be shown later, in some other cases cured at 60 C, the specified strength was exceeded by
be shown later, in some other cases cured at 60 C, the specified strength was exceeded by adjusting the
adjusting the delay time.
delay time.
It is also important to estimate when the specified strength is attained for cases where the specified
It is also important to estimate when the specified strength is attained for cases where the specified
strength is not reached in 7 days. Several of the cases exceeded the specified strength at 28 days, as
strength is not reached in 7 days. Several of the cases exceeded the specified strength at 28 days, as will
will be discussed later. Many of the other cases may eventually attain the specified strength, as can be
be discussed later. Many of the other cases may eventually attain the specified strength, as can be seen
seen in Figure 2 and as confirmed in previous studies. Whether or not the delayed strength
in Figure 2 and as confirmed in previous studies. Whether or not the delayed strength development is
development is acceptable depends on the progress schedule of the site and construction period.
acceptable depends on the progress schedule of the site and construction period.
Figure 5 shows an almost linear strength development for all moisture conditions. Therefore, the
Figure 5 shows an almost linear strength development for all moisture conditions. Therefore, the
following
followingpredictive
predictiveequations
equations are
are proposed
proposed as as aa result
result ofof regression
regressionanalysis
analysisthatthatrelate
relateearly-age
early-age
compressive
compressivestrength
strengthtotocuring
curingtemperature,
temperature, representatively
representatively for forenclosed
enclosedand andwater
water conditions:
conditions:
f /= f T =90 0.0062T + 0.4627 (20 C T 90 C, for enclosed condition)
fc7c7{fc7,Tc7,=90 0.0062T ` 0.4627 (20 C T 90 C, for enclosed condition) (1)(1)
f /= f T =90 0.0065T + 0.4246 (20 C T 90 C, for water condition)
fc7c7{fc7,Tc7,=90 0.0065T ` 0.4246 (20 C T 90 C, for water condition) (2)(2)
where
where fc7 fisc7 the 7-day
is the 7-daycompressive strength
compressive (MPa),
strength fc7, Tf c7,
(MPa), = 90T =is90theis 7-day compressive
the 7-day strength
compressive for afor90aC
strength
curing
90 Ctemperature

curing temperature (MPa), (MPa),
and T isandcuring temperature
T is curing temperature (C). (These
equations
C). These are are
equations normalized
normalized with
2 2
respect to fc7, T to
with respect = 90f.c7,
The coefficients
T = 90 of determination
. The coefficients (R ) of(REquations
of determination (1) and
) of Equations (1)(2)
andare
(2)asare
high as 0.9675
as high as
and0.9675
0.9955, and respectively,
0.9955, respectively,which which
indicates that that
indicates linear
linear regression
regressioncan canprovide
provide aa sufficiently
sufficientlyreliable
reliable
estimationofofthe
estimation the strength.
strength. Similarly,
Similarly,such
sucha predictive
a predictive equation
equation can be
canproposed for other
be proposed forcases
otherofcases
delay of
time,time,
delay curing time,time,
curing and moisture conditions.
and moisture conditions.

Figure 5. Compressive strengths according to curing temperatures (T-M-24-48).

Figure 5. Compressive strengths according to curing temperatures (T-M-24-48).
Materials 2015, 8 5546
Materials 2015, 8 10

3.3.
3.3. Effect
Effect of
of Curing
Curing Time
Time

The
Theeffect
effectof of
increasing the length
increasing of time
the length ofoftime
the main curing
of the main on curing
strengthon development is investigatedis
strength development
in this section.in Figure
investigated 6 shows
this section. the average
Figure 6 showsstrengths of specimens
the average strengthsasofaffected
specimens by curing time that
as affected were
by curing
cured at each
time that were temperature with the
cured at each delay timewith
temperature fixedtheas 24 h. For
delay timethis delay
fixed astime,
24 h.regardless
For this of moisture
delay time,

condition,
regardless while the specimens
of moisture condition, of while
7-day the
strength curedofat 7-day
specimens 90 Cstrength
exceeded the specified
cured at 90 C strength,
exceeded the the
specimens cured at the
specified strength, lower temperatures
specimens cureddid not reach
at lower the specified
temperatures did strength
not reachofthe 180 MPa, even
specified with of
strength a

curing timeeven
180 MPa, of 48withh. aHowever,
curing timethe of
specimens that were
48 h. However, thecured at 60 that
specimens C almost attained
were cured the C
at 60 specified
almost
strength, as shown in Figure 6c. Therefore, it would be possible for these specimens
attained the specified strength, as shown in Figure 6c. Therefore, it would be possible for these to reach the specified
strength
specimenswith
to some
reach measures, such
the specified as a slightly
strength with someincreased curing
measures, suchtimeas and an adjustment
a slightly increasedofcuring
the delay
time
time,
and anasadjustment
will be presented later. time, as will be presented later.
of the delay

Figure 6.6. Compressive

Figure Compressive strengths
strengths according
according toto curing
curing times (T-M-24-CT).
times (T-M-24-CT).
(a)Curing
(a) Curingtemperature
temperature
= 20= C20 C (2-M-24-CT).
(2-M-24-CT). (b)temperature
(b) Curing Curing temperature = 40 C
= 40 C (4-M-24-CT).
(4-M-24-CT).
(c) (c) Curing
Curing temperature temperature
= 60 = 60 C(d)
C (6-M-24-CT). (6-M-24-CT). (d) Curing
Curing temperature temperature
= 90 = 90 C
C (9-M-24-CT).
(9-M-24-CT).

In
In the
the case
case ofof specimens
specimens cured
cured at
at 20 C, the
20 C, the strength
strength increase
increase according
according toto curing
curing time
time was
was so
so
marginal that the specified strength could not be attained within 7 days. Referring to the
marginal that the specified strength could not be attained within 7 days. Referring to the previous studyprevious

study on K-UHPC
on K-UHPC shownshown in Figure
in Figure 2, when2,applying
when applying a temperature
a temperature of 20 C,ofthe
20 specified
C, the specified
strength strength
can only
can only be ensured in the long term with a continuous supply of moisture. The
be ensured in the long term with a continuous supply of moisture. The strengths obtained from strengths obtained
Materials 2015, 8 5547

from enclosed and water conditions at each curing time do not significantly differ in the case of 20 C.
As mentioned previously, the enclosed condition that can be relatively easily realized on site provides a
better treatment of moisture and strength development in this study, regardless of curing temperature,
as shown in Figure 6. Although the specified strength was not reached at 40 and 60 C with the
curing times considered, a regression equation can be used to estimate the appropriate curing time
if the specified strength is to be ensured in 7 days. For the enclosed condition that shows a better
strength development, it appears that the linear regression can provide the best fit, resulting in the
following equations:

fc7 0.5972t ` 121.82 (for curing temperature of 40 C) (3)

fc7 0.4158t ` 149.57 (for curing temperature of 60 C) (4)

where f c7 is the 7-day compressive strength (MPa) and t is the curing time (h). R2 of
Equations (3) and (4) are 0.8885 and 0.9907, respectively, with sufficient accuracy. According to
Equations (3) and (4), the specified strength can be ensured in 7 days with the curing time of
97 and 73 h, i.e., approximately 4 and 3 days, for curing temperatures of 40 and 60 C,
respectively. Matsubara et al. [6] stated that 180 MPa was attained after 7 days curing at
40 or 60 C. Consequently, the K-UHPC of this study shows a better strength development
performance even with a shorter curing time when compared with the UHPC developed by
Matsubara et al. [6]. At 90 C, increasing the curing time from the standard 48 to 72 h was
also effective, except for the dry condition. In contrast, for the dry condition, the strength
slightly decreased due to the excessive evaporation of internal water which induced drying and
micro-cracks under a very high temperature [13].
Figure 7 shows the relationship between strength and curing time for delay times other than 24 h.
At a shorter delay time of 12 h, which corresponds to the immediate initiation of curing
after form removal, the strength was higher in the water condition than that in the
enclosed condition, especially for that shown in Figure 7a at 40 C. It is because the
advantage of the enclosed condition is less distinct when the delay time is short. However,
the enclosed condition resulted in better strengths in the delay time of 48 h (Figure 7b,d)
than other moisture conditions, as did in the delay time of 24 h (Figure 6b,c). As shown in
Figure 7b, at a curing temperature of 40 C, the longer delay time of 48 h meant that the
effect of increasing the curing time on strength development was less clear. Figures 6c and 7c,d
show that the strength development at 60 C curing in the enclosed condition is quite
satisfactory; the specified compressive strength can almost be reached or can even be exceeded
in 7 days with the curing time of 48 h adopted in the standard steam curing of K-UHPC. On
the other hand, it is estimated that at a curing temperature of 40 C, a few days curing time
may be needed to reach the specified strength in 7 days, as shown in Figures 6b and 7a.
Materials 2015, 8 5548
Materials 2015, 8 12

Figure 7.
Figure 7. Compressive
Compressive strengths
strengths according
according to to curing
curing times
times (T-M-DT-CT).
(T-M-DT-CT). (a) (a) Curing
Curing
temperature == 40
temperature 40C
and delay time = 12 h (4-M-12-CT). (b) Curing temperature = 40 C and
C and delay time = 12 h (4-M-12-CT). (b) Curing temperature = 40 C
delaydelay
and timetime
= 48= 48
h (4-M-48-CT).
h (4-M-48-CT).(c) (c)
Curing
Curingtemperature
temperature== 6060C Cand
anddelay
delaytime
time == 12
12 hh
(6-M-12-CT). (d)
(6-M-12-CT). (d)Curing
Curingtemperature
temperature==6060C Cand
anddelay time
delay time= 48 h (6-M-48-CT).
= 48 h (6-M-48-CT).
3.4. Effect of Delay Time
3.4. Effect of Delay Time
According to a previous study on the standard steam curing of K-UHPC [13], if the delay time
According to a previous study on the standard steam curing of K-UHPC [13], if the delay time before
before high-temperature curing of 90 C is too short, strength degradation may possibly occur because
high-temperature
cement hydrate is curingexposed 90ahigh
of to C is too short, strength
temperature beforedegradation
it hardens tomay formpossibly
a tight occur because
structure and iscement
prone
hydrate is exposed to a high temperature before it hardens to form a tight
to internal micro-cracks. The reason why the delay time or the initial curing period before the main structure and is prone to
internal micro-cracks.
steam curing is set at 24The h is reason
based on whythisthe delay time
previous studyor[13].
the Honma
initial curing period
et al. [17] before the that
demonstrated main if
steam curing is set at 24 h is based on this previous study [13]. Honma
the high-temperature curing initiates after the initial setting that corresponds to the penetration et al. [17] demonstrated
that if the of
resistance high-temperature
5 MPa, similar curing initiates
strengths after theregardless
are obtained initial setting
of thethat corresponds
delay time in the to UHPC
the penetration
with the
resistance of 5 MPa, similar strengths are obtained regardless of the delay
specified compressive strength of 150200 MPa. In comparison, the initial setting of concrete mixture time in the UHPC with the
specified
is definedcompressive
by the time strength
when theofpenetration
150200 MPa. In comparison,
resistance equals 3.5 theMPa initial settingtoofASTM
according concrete mixture
C403 [22].
is defined by the time when the penetration resistance equals 3.5 MPa according
Ahlborn et al. [14] reported that a delay time as long as 10 or 24 days before high-temperature curing to ASTM C403 [22].
Ahlborn et al. [14]
at 90 C induced reported
a slight that a of
decrease delay time as
strength. long as the
However, 10 or 24 days
delay timesbefore
of thishigh-temperature curing
study are the shortest at

at
1290 C induced
h when a slight
the initial decrease
setting of strength.
time has However,
already passed, andthearedelay times ofatthis
the longest study
48 h, whichareare
thenot
shortest at
as long
12 h when
as the delaythetimeinitial
of thesetting
studytime has already
by Ahlborn passed,
et al. [14]. and are the longest
Furthermore, at 48 temperatures
the curing h, which are that
not as
arelong
the
as the delay time of the study by Ahlborn et al. [14]. Furthermore, the
main focus in this study are 40 and 60 C, which are lower than the curing temperature of 90 C curing temperatures that are the
main focus in this study are 40 and 60 C, which are lower than the curing temperature of 90 C adopted
Materials 2015, 8 5549
Materials 2015, 8 13

in the above
adopted in theprevious studies carried
above previous studiesout on the
carried outeffect
on theofeffect
the delay
of thetime.
delayAs a result,
time. the effect
As a result, the of the
effect
delay
of the time
delayontime
strength development
on strength is not distinct
development in this in
is not distinct study.
this study.
As seen in Figure 8, with the curing time of 48 h adopted
As seen in Figure 8, with the curing time of 48 h adopted for standard for standard
steamsteam curing,
curing, andthe
and with with the
curing

curing temperature
temperature of 40 orof6040C,
or 60
the C, the effect
effect of theof the delay
delay time ranging
time ranging from from
12 to12
48toh 48
onhthe
on strength
the strength
waswasnot
clear. ThatThat
not clear. is, increasing
is, increasing the delay
the delay timetime
did did
not not result
result in ainconsistent
a consistent increase
increase or decrease
or decrease of the
of the strength.
strength.

Figure 8. Compressive
Figure 8. Compressive strengths
strengthsaccording
accordingtotodelay
delay times
times before
before curing
curing (T-M-DT-48).
(T-M-DT-48). (a)
(a) Curing temperature = 40
C (4-M-DT-48). (b) Curing temperature = 60C (6-M-DT-48).
Curing temperature = 40 C (4-M-DT-48). (b) Curing temperature = 60 C (6-M-DT-48).

3.5. Discussion
3.5. Discussion
The results of this study and the relevant previous studies are compared in Table 4. The specified
The results of this study and the relevant previous studies are compared in Table 4. The specified
compressive strengths of the UHPC are considered to be in the range from 150 to 200 MPa.
compressive strengths of the UHPC are considered to be in the range from 150 to 200 MPa.
The comparison is limited to the lower curing temperatures, ranging from 20 to 70 C, than usual
The comparison is limited to the lower curing temperatures, ranging from 20 to 70 C, than usual steam
steam curing temperature of 90 C. Also, the development of early-age strength of less than or equal to
curing temperature of 90 C. Also, the development of early-age strength of less than or equal to 7 days
7 days is compared, according to the focus of this study. It can be identified that this study took more
is compared,
variables according to
or parameters thethe
than focus of thisstudies
previous study. It
tocan be identified
investigate thataspects
various this study took more
regarding variables
the curing of
or parameters than the previous studies to investigate various aspects regarding
UHPC. It is notable that in a few studies including this study, the specified compressive strength could the curing of UHPC.
It isattained
be notable that
in asinearly
a few asstudies
7 days,including this study,
with careful the specified
consideration ofcompressive
the temperaturestrengthandcould be attained
duration of the
in as early as 7 days, with careful consideration of the temperature and duration
curing. In order to achieve this purpose, at least 4060 C was required as curing temperature, whereas of the curing. In order to

achieve
room this purpose,
temperature at at least 4060
around 20 C C was
was required as The
insufficient. curing temperature,
shape and size whereas room temperature
of the specimens of variousat

around 20
studies C was
are also insufficient.
compared The shape
in Table 4. and size of the specimens of various studies are also compared
in Table 4.
In addition to the early-age strengths measured at 7 days, 28-day strengths were also measured,
In addition
although they are not to the the
early-age
main focusstrengths
of thismeasured
study. Someat 7 ofdays, 28-day strengths
the specimens that were were
curedalsoat measured,
60 C and
although
that closelythey are not thethemain
approached focus compressive
specified of this study.strength
Some of at 7the specimens
days exceededthatthewere at 60 C
curedstrength
specified at
and that closely approached the specified compressive strength at 7 days
28 days with the strength increase of 4.3% on average, which included 6-E-12-48, 6-W-12-48 and exceeded the specified strength
at 28 days with
6-S-12-48. Otherthe strength increase
specimens required of 4.3% on
a longer average,
term to attainwhich included 6-E-12-48,
the specified strength. When 6-W-12-48
comparingand
6-S-12-48.
the results Other specimens
of strength required aamong
measurement longer thetermdifferent
to attain studies,
the specified strength.
the length of When
time thecomparing
curing was the
results of strength
maintained shouldmeasurement
be noted to ensureamongathe different studies,
reasonable comparison. the length
For aof time the curing
long-term strengthwas maintained
measurement
should
at 28 daysbe noted to some
or later, ensurestudies
a reasonable
appliedcomparison.
moist curing For a long-term
continuously strength
until measurement
the strength at 28 days
was measured or
[3,13],
later, some
while otherstudies
studies,applied moistthis
including curing continuously
study, maintained until the strength
moist curing onlywas measured
for a short [3,13],
periodwhile[1].other
The
studies,developed
UHPC including this study, et
by Wille maintained moist curing
al. [3] attained 190200 onlyMPafor aatshort period
28 days when[1]. continuously
The UHPC developedstored in
Materials 2015, 8 5550

by Wille et al. [3] attained 190200 MPa at 28 days when continuously stored in water at 20 C and the
K-UHPC of this study reached 190 MPa at 91 days in a similar condition [13]. The UHPC developed
in the Sustainable and Advanced Materials for Road InfraStructure (SAMARIS) project [1] achieved
182 MPa at 28 days in ambient temperature with 8 days of moist curing, although around 150 MPa was
attained at 7 or 14 days. However, the previous studies mentioned above focused on a long-term strength
of at least 28 days; therefore, because this study deals with the early-age strength of UHPC at 7 days, it
can provide distinct and useful data for UHPC cast in-place for field application.

Table 4. Comparison of the test results with previous studies on UHPC.

Shape and Specified Water-to-Binder

Early-Age Strength
Size of Compressive Ratio/Mineral
Study Variables Development
Specimen Strength Admixture
(Curing Condition)
(mm) (MPa) (% of Binder)

180 MPa in 7 days

Curing temperature,
Cylinder 0.2/Silica fume (40 C for 4 days or
This study delay time, continuing 180
( 100 200) (20%) 60 C for 2 days in
time, moisture condition
moist condition)
150 MPa in 7 days
SAMARIS Cylinder 0.123/Silica fume
- 180 (20 C for 7 days in
[1] ( 110 220) (21%)
moist condition)
Ishii 147 MPa in 4 days
Curing temperature Not specified 180 Not specified
et al. [5] (70 C for 2 days)
180 MPa in 7 days
Matsubara Cylinder 0.152/Silica fume
Curing temperature 180 (40 C or 60 C
et al. [6] ( 100 200) (not specified)
for 7 days)
Ahlborn Curing temperature, Cylinder 137 MPa in 7 days
200 Not specified
et al. [14] delay time ( 76 152) (20 C for 7 days)
Curing temperature, 135 MPa in 7 days
Nakayama Cylinder 0.15/Silica fume
delay time, 150 (60 C for 3 h in
et al. [16] ( 100 200) (15%)
continuing time moist condition)
90100 MPa in 7 days
Honma Cylinder 0.120.2/Silica fume (20 C for 7 days in
Curing temperature 150200
et al. [17] ( 100 200) (10%20%) moist condition) and
130170 MPa in 7 days
(40 C for 7 days
in moist condition)

According to the experimental results of this study, it would not be possible to ensure the specified
compressive strength of K-UHPC within 7 days with a curing temperature of 20 C, regardless of the
moist curing method employed. The minimum condition to ensure the specified strength at 7 days
derived in this study is a curing period of 48 h (2 days) with a temperature of 60 C under a moist
condition, and with the delay time of 12 to 48 h before the curing begins. A maximum of 3 days curing
period would be sufficient to ensure the specified strength in 7 days. A certain type of heat treatment
would be required to ensure a curing temperature of 60 C, such as a heating system that is easily
available on site as adopted by Matsubara et al. [6] in an actual pedestrian bridge. On the other hand,
Materials 2015, 8 5551

at a curing temperature of 40 C, at least a 4 days curing period is required to attain the same strength
level. In the hot weather conditions in some countries, an environmental temperature of 40 C may be
obtained simply by covering the structure with a thick and tight plastic sheet after casting, even though
a heating facility is not available on site.

4. Conclusions

This study presented experimental results on the effect of various curing conditions of K-UHPC on
early-age strength development in order to increase the field applicability of K-UHPC. Based on the
results of the foregoing investigation, the following conclusions can be drawn:

As the curing temperature increased, the development of the compressive strength of K-UHPC
was accelerated. The 7-day strength was almost linearly proportional to the curing temperature,
which ranged from 20 to 90 C. Some specimens cured at 60 C for 48 h attained 180 MPa in
7 days, which is the specified compressive strength of K-UHPC, under the condition that proper
delay time along with careful moisture treatment are provided. A dry condition should be avoided,
especially in UHPC based on a low water-to-binder ratio. The enclosed condition where the
concrete surface is covered with a thin plastic sheet was also effective when compared with
moist curing.
The strength development of K-UHPC was also proportional to the curing period, regardless of
the curing temperature. In order to ensure the specified strength in 7 days, the curing time of
4872 h was appropriate for a curing temperature of 60 C, while a longer period of at least 96 h
may be necessary for 40 C based on the regression analysis. However, the specified strength is not
attained in 7 days if a curing temperature of 20 C is maintained even until strength measurement.
The effect of delay time ranging from 12 to 48 h prior to initiation of the main curing on the
strength development of K-UHPC was not clear, regardless of the curing temperature. In field
application, therefore, the delay time would not have an adverse effect on the strength unless it is
either too long or too short.

Acknowledgments

This research was supported by a grant (13SCIPA02) from Smart Civil Infrastructure Research
Program funded by Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) of Korea government and
Korea Agency for Infrastructure Technology Advancement (KAIA).

Author Contributions

Jong-Sup Park conceived, designed and performed the experiments. Young Jin Kim supervised this
project as a principal investigator. Jeong-Rae Cho contributed to the literature review for this study.
Se-Jin Jeon analyzed the data and wrote the paper.
Materials 2015, 8 5552

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

References

1. Denari, E.; Brhwiler, E.; Znidaric, A. Full scale application of UHPFRC for the rehabilitation
of bridgesfrom the lab to the field. 2005. Available online: http://samaris.zag.si/ (accessed on
11 August 2015).
2. Richard, P.; Cheyrezy, M. Composition of reactive powder concretes. Cem. Concr. Res. 1995, 25,
15011511. [CrossRef]
3. Wille, K.; Naaman, A.E.; Parra-Montesinos, G.J. Ultra-high performance concrete with
compressive strength exceeding 150 MPa (22 ksi): A simpler way. ACI Mater. J. 2011, 108,
4654.
4. Korea Concrete Institute. Design Recommendations for Ultra-High Performance Concrete K-UHPC;
KCI-M-12-003. Korea Concrete Institute: Seoul, Korea, 2012.
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