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Founded in 1904 and headquartered in Farmington Hills, Michigan, USA, the American Concrete Institute is a leading authority and resource worldwide for the development, dissemination, and adoption of its consensus-based standards, technical resources, educational programs, and proven expertise for individuals and organizations involved in concrete design, construction, and materials, who share a commitment to pursuing the best use of concrete.
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Home > Tools > Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can the heat liberated by the hydrating cement be relied on to give protection during cold weather? A. Yes, if forms are suitably insulated, exposed surfaces, corners, and edges are doubly insulated (ACI 306R), and the concrete temperature as placed is above 10°C (50°F). Otherwise, external heat is required. In large masses, the heat of hydration can shorten the period during which artificial heat is required, but the early protection is necessary for the benefit of the surface. The surfaces of mass concrete should be protected against too rapid cooling, as serious cracking can result from too steep a thermal gradient between the surface and the interior. References: SP-1(02); ACI 306R-16; ACI 306.1-90 Topics in Concrete: Cold Weather; Concrete Fundamentals; Placing
Q. Can the heat liberated by the hydrating cement be relied on to give protection during cold weather?
A. Yes, if forms are suitably insulated, exposed surfaces, corners, and edges are doubly insulated (ACI 306R), and the concrete temperature as placed is above 10°C (50°F). Otherwise, external heat is required. In large masses, the heat of hydration can shorten the period during which artificial heat is required, but the early protection is necessary for the benefit of the surface. The surfaces of mass concrete should be protected against too rapid cooling, as serious cracking can result from too steep a thermal gradient between the surface and the interior.
References: SP-1(02); ACI 306R-16; ACI 306.1-90
Topics in Concrete: Cold Weather; Concrete Fundamentals; Placing
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