Roberto Talotti

Water added & curing

For the duration of the study the maximum recommended water was added to each mix. This was done to mimic the worst case scenario with regards to matrial properties for the products.

All five products were cured for 1 day after casting. This was done to simulate the worst case real life conditions that would be expected on site in the application of patch repair mortars.

During the curing time in the moulds the specimens were covered in plastic, as it common practice in the construction industry, to reduce moisture loss.

After curing, the specimens would be placed in the controlled environmental room at a temperature of ±22 °C and a humidity of ±50%. This harsh environment would again simulate the worst possible conditions that the material could be exposed to. The materials would dry out quicker, which would lead to increased shrinkage and lower strength.