Urea additives for reduction of hydration heat in cement composites

This study evaluates the feasibility of using urea in cement composites, as a means to reduce the heat generated from the hydration of cement. The performed experimental evaluation uses several different test and analysis techniques: calorimetric tests, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, mercury intrusion porosimetry, and compressive strength tests. To avoid the potential difficulties related with the increase in the solution volume, an alternative mix design is proposed, which can produce concrete with mechanical properties-including the compressive strength-that are equal to or better than the traditional control mix, while simultaneously preserving the outstanding temperature reduction capabilities of urea.