Application of the maturity method to reinforced concrete roof slabs

Abstract

The maturity method is a procedure that associates the evolution of the temperature of concrete cast to the structure and the evolution of its hardened state properties like compressive strength, usually at early ages. Its use is justified when safety and agility are required for activities like prestressing, shoring removal, demolding and low temperature concrete curing analysis. Temperate regions are known for having lower temperatures during the winter, which can delay concrete strength gains. The aim of this study was to apply the maturity method to a reinforced concrete structure located in Southern Brazil in industrial construction. It was noted that the concrete, despite being expected to reach 30 MPa at 28 days, managed to reach 70% of the strength at 8.5 days for slab 1. Slab 2, whose function was to support garners 4, 5 and 6, presented the data at 4.4 days, it being possible to measure such property using the maturity method.