Description

ACI 308.1M – Standard Specification for Curing Concrete

This specification is a reference specification that the Architect/Engineercan make applicable to any construction project by citing it in the ProjectSpecification. The Architect/Engineer uses and supplements the provisions ofthis reference specification as needed by designating or specifying individualproject requirements to which provisions of this specification apply.

This document provides requirements for alternative methods for curingconcrete. These alternative methods are not necessarily equal ineffectiveness, cost, effect on project schedule, or impact on other aspectsof the project. To use this specification, the Architect/Engineer must notonly include this document by reference in the Project Specification, butmust also identify the concrete elements that are to be cured, and mustchoose the method to cure those elements. This specification has defaultsettings that may or may not be applicable to a specific project. TheArchitect/Engineer is to use the Checklists included in this specification tocustomize the specification to a specific project. Checklists are provided inthis document to guide the Architect/Engineer through these selectionprocesses, and the selections must be included in the Project Specification.Alternatively, the Architect/Engineer may allow the Contractor the optionof using one or more of a number of permissible curing methods, subject toreview and approval. Further, the Architect/Engineer must determinewhether deliberate curing efforts are to be terminated after a predeterminedtime has elapsed, or only after specified concrete properties have developed.When deliberate efforts to cure the concrete are to be terminated only whenspecified concrete properties have developed, the Architect/Engineer mustalso select the test method used to measure those properties.

This specification addresses curing methods applied after placement ofconcrete and does not apply to internal curing (use of saturated lightweightaggregate or other materials to provide supplemental water) or toaccelerated curing (heat curing).

The materials, processes, quality control measures, and inspectionsdescribed in this document should be tested, monitored, or performed asapplicable only by individuals holding the appropriate ACI certificationsor equivalent.