Strength properties of roller compacted concrete pavement (RCCP) under different curing methods

The curing of roller compacted concrete (RCC) pavements requires much more attention and importance than conventional concrete pavements due to its very dry consistency. This research was conducted to determine the effects of different curing types and their application times on mechanical properties of RCC. In addition, the effects on physical properties of RCC were determined in the study, as well. In the experimental study, 4 different curing types as the curing compound, burlap, membrane and water that have been widely used in the market, were applied for 15, 30, and 60 min and immediately after casting. Compressive strength, flexural strength, weight loss, ultrasonic pulse velocity and rebound hammer tests were applied to determine the physical and mechanical properties of RCC specimens. According to the results, the best curing method for compressive and flexural strengths of RCC was determined as water curing, providing approximately 29% and 34% increase in strength compared to uncured mixtures, respectively. In terms of weight loss, the best result was obtained with water curing, increasing the amount of moisture, unlike other curing methods.