Conjugation of optical and microwave techniques to monitor the early age concrete cure

Abstract

Concrete corresponds to a multiphase structure in which water content takes a particular importance in its curing process. The water contributes to the cohesion of the mineral network and ensures the ions' conduction when present in the pores of the structure. Therefore, it is essential to monitor the water content in the cement paste during the cure process in order to control the material properties and assess its lifetime. In this article, we report the study of the cement paste during the early age curing period, using the conjugation of optical and microwave methods.