Optimal dosage arrival of polyethylene glycol-400 in achieving self-curing concrete: An experimental strength and durability study

Abstract

Concrete has been a widely used building material that has required a significant amount of water, especially for the curing purpose. Challenges such as water scarcity, inadequate potable water quality, and lack of proper curing practices have posed threats to the strength and durability of concrete structures. In order to address these issues, self-curing agents have been introduced, resulting in self-curing concrete (SCC), which has gained attention in the construction industry as a promising solution. The current study has examined the fresh, hardened, and durability properties of M₂₀ grade SCC using polyethylene glycol-400 (PEG-400) as a self-curing agent in the varying concentrations (0–3% at 1% intervals) with a constant water-binder ratio of 0.45 and binder content of 410.32 kg/m³. Fresh properties have been assessed using the slump flow test, while mechanical properties, including compressive, split tensile, and flexural strengths, have been evaluated at 7 and 28 days of curing. Durability tests such as water absorption, sorptivity, Rapid Chloride Penetration Test (RCPT), and resistance to acid and sulfate attacks were also carried out. The results have indicated that 1% PEG-400 provides an optimal performance, enhancing strength and durability. X-ray diffraction has identified key minerals (Si, Al, Fe, and Ca) contributing to strength gains, while microstructural analysis has confirmed cohesive binder-particle interactions at 1% PEG-400. In Overall, it has been found that the PEG-400 concentration for SCC is optimal at 1% for the M₂₀ concrete.