Shakti Kumar, Nitin Verma, Dilshad Ali, Anuj Tiwari, Anuraj Singh | International Journal of Concrete Technology | Vol 12, Issue 1 | pp. 1-6 | ISSN: 2456-8317
Abstract
Abstract—This study examines the use of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG-400) as an internal curing agent in concrete, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional water-curing methods. The research addresses the challenge of water scarcity in the construction industry by introducing a self-curing system capable of retaining internal moisture to support prolonged cement hydration. PEG-400, a water-soluble polymer, was added to concrete mixes at different dosages to assess its influence on hydration, shrinkage control, and mechanical properties. Test results show that an optimum amount of PEG-400 improves hydration, reduces early-age shrinkage, and enhances compressive strength. In contrast, higher dosages reduce strength due to disruption in cement matrix formation. Overall, the findings indicate that PEG-400 provides effective internal curing and contributes to durable, sustainable concrete while significantly reducing the need for external curing water . In addition, the incorporation of PEG-400 improves the workability and consistency of fresh concrete, allowing better placement and compaction during construction. The self-curing property provided by PEG-400 helps maintain internal moisture for a longer duration, ensuring continuous hydration of cement particles even in environments where external curing is inadequate or unavailable. This characteristic is particularly beneficial in hot and dry climatic conditions where rapid evaporation of water from concrete surfaces can lead to early-age cracking and reduced structural performance. By minimizing moisture loss, PEG-400 assists in maintaining the internal relative humidity required for proper cement hydration.Furthermore, the use of self-curing agents like PEG-400 can reduce labor requirements and curing costs associated with conventional curing practices. The study therefore highlights the potential of PEG-400 as a practical and eco-friendly solution for improving the quality, durability, and sustainability of concrete structures in modern construction.
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How to cite this article
@article{KumarS2026,
author = {Shakti Kumar and Nitin Verma and Dilshad Ali and Anuj Tiwari and Anuraj Singh},
title = {A review – Inhancing the Performance of Self-Curing Concrete Using Polyethylene Glycol as an Internal Curing Agent},
journal = {International Journal of Concrete Technology},
year = {2026},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {1--6},
issn = {2456-8317},
url = {https://journalspub.com/publication/ijct/article=24745}
}