Statistical validation of new maturity functions for high-strength self-consolidating concrete mixes

A research project was performed to characterize both the setting and hardening of three high-strength self-consolidating concrete mixes used in the production of precast combined pile-cap and column elements (column footings) of the Elevated Highways in Mexico City. By monitoring an eighteen-meter-high column footing during its production, the wide range of internal concrete temperatures experienced by this massive structure at an early age was registered, from 5 to 90 °C. Concrete maturity method was applied to the equivalent mortars after ASTM C1074-11. The analysis of the experimental results allowed the statistical validation of new maturity functions for the equivalent mortar mixtures, which provided better predictions for the relative strength than the deterministic procedure of ASTM C1074-11 for the concrete ages and the wide range of curing temperatures tested. The maturity functions make up the cross-over effect, namely the influence of the internal temperature experienced by concrete on its long-term compressive strength.