Scholar: Zhaniya Omarova
When: April 15th, 2026 at 10:30AM
Where: PKI 250
Zoom: https://unl.zoom.us/j/94476173636
Title: Effect of Curing on Bridge Deck Concrete Shrinkage
Abstract: This study aims to investigate the feasibility of reducing curing duration for bridge deck concrete while maintaining performance. Standard (47BD) and optimized (O47BD-R100) mixtures were evaluated under different curing regimes. Fresh and early-age properties, along with mechanical, durability, and shrinkage performance, were assessed to characterize the effect of curing duration on concrete behavior. To capture internal behavior, sensors were embedded in the concrete to continuously monitor internal relative humidity and temperature, enabling assessment of moisture diffusion and its role in shrinkage development. These measurements supported the formulation of a strain prediction model incorporating internal RH. The results indicate that it is possible to safely reduce curing duration for bridge deck concrete without negatively affecting performance.