Effect of moisture and temperature on the mechanical properties of concrete

Concrete is one of the most widely used building materials. Extensive research was accomplished testing concrete properties including but not limited to modulus of elasticity, compressive strength, tensile strength, and Poisson\u27s ratio using modulus of elasticity and strength testing. The research was done under laboratory conditions. The ideal air temperature in the laboratory was between 68 and 71 °F, and the ideal air relative humidity in a laboratory was between 40 and 60 percent. Research was accomplished on properties of concrete during the curing process at extreme temperatures experienced in the developed world, but little on concrete that is already cured in the temperature range of -4 °F and 122 °F. There has also been some research of cured concrete at very high temperatures to simulate the strength properties of concrete in a fire. Virtually no research has been accomplished on the properties of concrete relating to moisture either during or after the curing process, thus there is a need for research on this topic. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)