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What Happens When Concrete Hydrates?

Concrete, a mix of various components, such as Portland cement, gravel and sand, must undergo a process called hydration before the various components combine properly and create a workable material. The addition of water to the mix causes this reaction. A successful hydration process results in a strong, durable concrete.

  1. Water

    • The amount of water used in the hydration process helps to determine the ultimate strength of the concrete. The cement paste, which solidifies due to hydration, turns into a harder concrete when less water is used. Mixers must take care, however, not to reduce the water to a level so low that the workability of the fresh concrete is compromised. Along with the proper amount of water, other factors, such as using proper curing techniques, also play a role in the final strength of the set concrete.

    Process

    • Water turns the cement mix from a solid to a solution or liquid-like form and the cement grains start to dissolve. Certain complex chemical reactions in the solution lead to the formation of particles that begin to solidify. These new, solid particles have a different structure than the original cement mix. As time passes, the concrete continues to set and the particles start to expand through the mix and connect to each other.

    Temperature

    • The temperature of the concrete as it undergoes curing and hydration has a strong effect on the ultimate result of the process. Cold temperatures inhibit hydration. Temperature below 50 degrees Fahrenheit considerably slow down hydration, while temperatures below 40 degrees might stop the process altogether. Excessive heat can also interfere with proper hydration, causing the process to proceed too quickly, which may lead to cracking. Curing concrete at temperatures between 50 and 75 degrees gives the best results, according to the Portland Concrete Association.

    Curing

    • The curing process aids in hydration and begins once the surface of the concrete has hardened slightly. Curing involves keeping the concrete moist so that water does not evaporate from the material too quickly. Moisture-retaining fabrics might also be placed on the concrete as well. Curing greatly assists in hydration, but the process does not stop when curing ends. Although 90 percent of hydration occurs in the first month of the procedure, the process may continue for years.

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