An Experimental Study on Age Effect under Saturated Condition on Thermal Properties of Mass Concrete

This paper presents experimental study, investigating the effect of age on thermal properties of mass concrete. Six design mixes were analysed for thermal properties i.e. Thermal Conductivity, Diffusivity and Specific Heat using Hot Disk TPS 1500 system at the age of 7, 28, 56 and 90 days and tests were performed on samples of the same volume (150 x 150 x 150 mm) under saturated curing conditions and at room temperature. It is expected that the thermal properties of the concrete depends on its age and the applied curing conditions. The thermal properties of concrete can progress with the progression of hydration. While the hydration process is highly dependent on the curing condition that is applied. Results also show increase in thermal conductivity and diffusivity of concrete with age under saturated condition whereas specific heat decreases.