Shading Concrete Works:

The object of shading is to avoid the evaporation of water from the surface of concrete after it is placed and compacted. This method is used to protect the newly laid concrete from heat, wind and direct sunrays. In cold weather, it prevents the freezing of concrete under frost condition. This process is mainly suitable for large surfaces such as road slabs. Using canvas and starching them on frames achieve shading over the newly laid concrete.

Chemical Curing:

Chemical curing is accomplished by spraying the sodium silicate solution. About 500 gm sodium silicate mixed with water can cover 1 m2 of surface and forms a hard and insoluble calcium silicate film. It actually acts as case hardener and curing agent. An application of sodium silicate results in a thin varnish like film that also fill pores and surface voids, thus sealing the surface and preventing the evaporation of water.