ACI 308.1-11

This specification is a reference specification that the Architect/Engineer can make applicable to any construction project by citing it in the Project Specification. The Architect/Engineer uses and supplements the provisions of this reference specification as needed by designating or specifying individual project requirements to which provisions of this specification apply.

This document provides requirements for alternative methods for curing concrete. These alternative methods are not necessarily equal in effectiveness, cost, effect on project schedule, or impact on other aspects of the project. To use this specification, the Architect/Engineer must not only include this document by reference in the Project Specification, but must also identify the concrete elements that are to be cured, and must choose the method to cure those elements. This specification has default settings that may or may not be applicable to a specific project. The Architect/Engineer is to use the Checklists included in this specification to customize the specification to a specific project. Checklists are provided in this document to guide the Architect/Engineer through these selection processes, and the selections must be included in the Project Specification. Alternatively, the Architect/Engineer may allow the Contractor the option of using one or more of a number of permissible curing methods, subject to review and approval. Further, the Architect/Engineer must determine whether deliberate curing efforts are to be terminated after a predetermined time has elapsed, or only after specified concrete properties have developed. When deliberate efforts to cure the concrete are to be terminated only when specified concrete properties have developed, the Architect/Engineer must also select the test method used to measure those properties.

This specification addresses curing methods applied after placement of concrete and does not apply to internal curing (use of saturated lightweight aggregate or other materials to provide supplemental water) or to accelerated curing (heat curing).

The materials, processes, quality control measures, and inspections described in this document should be tested, monitored, or performed as applicable only by individuals holding the appropriate ACI certifications or equivalent.