Title: Temperature Controlled Microwave Accelerated Curing of Precast Ferrocement Secondary Roofing Slabs

Author(s): K C G Ong, C P Teo, C H Shum, L H J Wong, S T Tan and C T Tam

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 224

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 127-144

Keywords:

DOI: 10.14359/13413

Date: 12/1/2004

Abstract:
The use of microwave technology to speed up the production of precast ferrocement secondary roofing slabs is explored in this paper. In particular, the use of discrete on-off microwave curing regimes and the effects of such regimes on the strength and durability of the ferrocement slabs are investigated. By a regime of on-off microwave application to maintain the temperature of the slab within a specified range during microwave curing, overheating of the slabs can be avoided. High early age strengths were attained in slabs cured using such regimes, with no strength loss at 28 days. In addition, the durability of such slabs need not be compromised. The use of an appropriate reduced power level during the later stage of the curing process was found to result in a marginal improvement in the near surface quality without any reduction in early age strength.