Use of CO_2 as an Accelerated Curing Agent for Concrete Blocks

摘要

In this project, a process was developed to cure concrete masonry blocks using CO_2. It was found that the strength of concrete mixtures for block manufacture after CO_2 curing was close to that after conventional steam curing. A dry pre-conditioning before CO_2 curing was very critical to achieve high degree of CO_2 curing. The specimen pre-conditioned in the moist environment hydrates more than those pre-conditioned in the dry environment during the pre-conditioning period. However, much less CaCO_3 formed in the former that that in the latter after the CO_2 curing. Thus, the CO_2 curing is mainly contributed by the reactions between CO_2 gas and cement clink minerals.