How does temperature affect concrete curing?

High temperatures significantly impact the curing of concrete by accelerating the hydration process. When the temperature rises, the chemical reactions involved in hydration occur more quickly, which can initially be beneficial as it can lead to faster strength gain. However, this rapid hydration can also produce excess heat within the concrete mix, leading to several issues, including cracking and reduced long-term durability. If the temperature is too high, the rapid evaporation of moisture from the surface can occur, further increasing the risk of thermal cracking as the surface dries out faster than the inner concrete remains hydrated.

Understanding temperature's role in curing helps practitioners control and optimize the curing process. Effective measures, such as using retarders or cooling techniques on hot days, can mitigate these effects and ensure that the concrete sets and gains strength without detrimental cracking. Therefore, options focusing on high temperatures leading to rapid hydration and cracking correctly capture the complexities involved in the curing process at elevated temperatures.