The concrete mix temperature –an important process parameter

The objective of this study was to investigate difficulties observed when producing concrete under varying climatic changes throughout the year. An increase in number of complaints was experienced about the visual defects of decorative products produced in the winter period (fig. 1+2). These products are required to fulfil certain optical product requirements. For poured concrete (e.g. SCC) a very porous surface can result at low temperatures if corrective measures are not taken even if the system functioned well during the warmer months (fig. 3). On the other hand, highly reactive cements and dry concrete consistency can lead to problems such as frost damage (fig. 4) when produced in summer at excessively high temperatures. Large strength losses can also occur at excessively high temperatures for strength related products.

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