Mechanical and Durability Performance of Self-Curing Concrete Using Polyethylene Glycol

Curing plays a vital role in the strength development and durability of concrete. However, conventional curing practices are often difficult to implement due to water scarcity, inadequate supervision, and unfavourable environmental conditions. Self-curing concrete provides an effective alternative by ensuring internal moisture availability for continuous hydration. In this study, Polyethylene Glycol (PEG- 400) was used as an internal curing agent in M30 grade concrete. Concrete mixes were prepared with varying PEG dosages (0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% of mixing water) and compared with conventionally cured control concrete. Fresh concrete properties were evaluated using slump test, while hardened concrete was tested for compressive strength, split tensile strength, water absorption, and sorptivity. The results indicated that self-curing concrete exhibited improved workability, enhanced mechanical strength, and superior durability characteristics compared to control concrete. The optimum performance was observed at 1.0% PEG dosage, beyond which marginal reduction in properties occurred. The study demonstrates that PEG-based self-curing concrete is a practical and sustainable alternative to conventional curing methods.