Modelling on temperature field of high-strength concrete pavement with the impact of internal curing

Abstract

ABSTRACT A numerical model for the temperature field calculation of high-strength concrete pavement is developed in this paper. Cement hydration, solar radiation and atmospheric temperature changes are taken into consideration in the modelling. Temperature field of high-strength concrete pavement made by concrete with a compressive strength of 100 MPa at 28 days is simulated. Using the model, effects of internal curing with pre-wetted lightweight aggregate (PSLWA) in concrete, concrete casting time, casting season and concrete strength on the development of temperature in the pavement are studied. The model results show that internal curing with PSLWA will increase the temperature rise in the pavement of 2°C compared with the reference. The effect of construction seasons of the pavement on temperature rise is significant. About 20°C lower temperature rise may be expected if the pavement is constructed in spring instead of in summer. The model predictions and test results on the development of temperature at different places in the slab agreed well and the model may be used for temperature control and optimisation of pavement construction.