Durable concrete is achieved through the correct selection and proportioning of high-quality constituent materials, forming a dense and impermeable cement matrix.
Key Factors Influencing Concrete Durability:
- Reduced water/cement ratio to limit porosity and increase strength
- Sufficient workability and flowability to ensure full compaction and filling of complex formwork
- Proper curing, applied as early as possible and maintained for an adequate duration
Explore Our Concrete Curing & Durability Products
Improving Concrete Durability
The use of admixture technologies enables the production of concrete with enhanced durability and long-term performance.
With the high-range water-reducing capabilities of Sika® ViscoCrete® technology, water content can be significantly reduced while maintaining workability and flowability. This results in a denser cement matrix with improved mechanical properties and reduced permeability.
Depending on the exposure conditions and performance requirements, durability can be further enhanced with:
- Sika® Control® – for the reduction of drying shrinkage and cracking
- Sika® AER – for controlled air entrainment to improve frost and freeze/thaw resistance
- SikaFume® – for increased matrix density and improved bond between cement paste and aggregates
Curing of Concrete
Curing is essential to ensure proper hydration of cement and the development of the desired concrete properties.
Effective curing:
- Supports strength development
- Reduces shrinkage and surface cracking
- Improves resistance to environmental exposure
- Enhances long-term durability
Curing should begin immediately after placing and finishing and must be maintained for a sufficient period depending on the application and environmental conditions