Identifying the Reference Time for Determining the Compressive Strength of Concrete Containing Different Types of Cements

The compressive strength of the concrete measured at 28 days is the criterion for assessing the concrete class, and these values will be acceptable precise indications for other physical and mechanical characteristics of the concrete. In addition to the factors the compressive strength of concrete varies on (such as: the characteristics and proportion of constituents, the placement conditions and subsequent treatment and testing conditions), the concrete class should also depend on the type of cement contained and the concrete strength evolution over time. Due to the fact that concretes with composite cements have a slower evolution of compressive strength and a significant strength increase after 28 days, concretes with different types of cements and mineral admixtures were tested for compression after 28 days in order to determine the reference time for such tests – and thus the concrete’s class.