Concrete poured when freezing

[Mr. Inspector]

I failed an inspection where they poured concrete when it was 27 and went down to 22 that night and they had no blankets or heaters to insulate it with. Temperature of forms and stone it was [poured on was also below freezing. How would this concrete be tested so I could approve it to build on.

 

[classicT]

Core it and run a compression test.

 

[jar546]

This association has the following opinion:

Cement & Concrete FAQ - Portland Cement Association

Your basic cement and concrete questions answered by qualified experts.

www.cement.org

 

[north star]

@ ~ @ ~ @

Agree with ** classicT ** !...........Cored samples will need to be taken
and tested by a qualified concrete testing lab.

@ ~ @ ~ @

 

[Mark K]

This association has the following opinion:

Cement & Concrete FAQ - Portland Cement Association

Your basic cement and concrete questions answered by qualified experts.

www.cement.org

Refer to ACI standards

 

[Keystone]

Your spot on. Core and let the results speak for themselves. Hopefully for the best being that it would appear to be days after the pour.

 

[BN4537]

The first day is less relevant at that temperature than the second and third day. If it was 27 to 22 the first day and night, but jumped back up to 50 the next day, you should be fine, if they poured with warm water and a few additives.

 

[classicT]

The first day is less relevant at that temperature than the second and third day. If it was 27 to 22 the first day and night, but jumped back up to 50 the next day, you should be fine, if they poured with warm water and a few additives.

Yes and no.... it depends.

Concrete is most susceptible to microfractures immediately after it begins to cure. That said, the curing process (chemical reaction) is exothermic and can produce sufficient heat to prevent freezing.

There are too many factors to eyeball guess. Humidity, water content to cement ratio, type of cement, etc. will all affect the ability of the concrete to sustain cold temperatures during the initial 24-hours of curing.

Core the concrete and get a definitive answer.