THE MATURITY METHOD: FROM THEORY TO

APPLICATION

by

N.J. Carino
and
H.S. Lew
Building and Fire Research Laboratory
National Institute of Standards and Technology
Gaithersburg, MD 20899-8611 USA

Reprinted from the Proceedings of the 2001 Structures Congress & Exposition, May 21-23,
2001, Washington, D.C., American Society of Civil Engineers, Reston, Virginia, Peter C.
Chang, Editor, 2001, 19 p.

NOTE: This paper is a contribution of the National Institute of Standards and

Technology and is not subject to copyright.
 The Maturity Method: From Theory to Application1

Nicholas J. Carino,* Member, ASCE and H. S. Lew,** Fellow, ASCE

*
Group Leader, Structures Division, Building and Fire Research Laboratory, National Institute of
Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-8611; PH 301-975-6063; ncarino@nist.gov
**
Senior Research Engineer, Structures Division, Building and Fire Research Laboratory,
National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-8611; PH 301-975-
6060; hlew@nist.gov

Abstract

The maturity method is a technique to account for the combined effects of time and temperature
on the strength development of concrete. The method provides a relatively simple approach for
making reliable estimates of in-place strength during construction. The origin of the method can
蒸汽 护 be traced to work on steam curing of concrete carried out in England in the late 1940s and early
1950s. As a result of technology transfer efforts by the Federal Highway Administration, there is
renewed interest in the method within the United States. The purpose of this paper is to review of
the basic concepts underlying the method and to explain how the method is applied. The review
focuses on work carried out by researchers at the
开始National Institute of Standards and Technology
(formerly the National Bureau of Standards). 本文的目的是介绍这种方法的基本概念和这种方法如何应用

Introduction
外观的
On March 2, 1973, portions of a multi-story apparent building, under construction in Fairfax
County, Va., suffered a progressive collapse. Fourteen workers were killed and 34 were injured
in the accident. The National Bureau of Standards (NBS) was requested by the Occupational 职业安全
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to assist in determining the technical cause of the
过早的，
collapse. The NBS report concluded that the most probable cause of the failure was premature 不成熟的
removal of formwork that resulted in punching 冲切应力
shear stresses that exceeded the capacity of the
relatively young concrete [Carino et al. 1983a]. At the time of the failure, the concrete in the
floor slab where failure is believed to have initiated
开始
was only four days old. During that period,
the average temperature recorded at a nearby airport had averaged about 7 °C. The NBS
investigators encountered difficulty in using published relative strength development data
obtained under constant temperature conditions to obtain a reliable estimate of the in-place
concrete strength at the time of the failure. This triggered an interest in a relatively new approach
触发的，启动的，引发
known as the maturity method for estimating in-place strength development under variable
temperature conditions. 成熟度法主要是为了评估在不同温度下现场混凝土强度发展
The maturity method relies on the measured temperature history of the concrete to estimate
strength development during the curing period, when moisture is available for cement hydration.
成熟度法主要是依靠测量的混凝土温度历史去评估在混凝土养护期间强度的发展情况（当混凝土可以充分水化时）
1
Contribution of the National Institute of Standards and Technology; not subject to copyright in the United States.

1
 数量，总量，大量，量 成熟度指数
The temperature history is used to calculate a quantity called the maturity index. For each 对于一种确定的
混凝土，混凝土
concrete mixture, the relationship between strength (or other property of interest) and the 强度和成熟指数
maturity index is established beforehand. The strength relationship and the measured in-place 之间的关系是确
定的
maturity index are used to estimate the in-place strength. 事先，预先，提前的，预先准备好的
The initial research at NBS confirmed that the maturity method could be used to estimate the
development of compressive strength, and other mechanical properties of concrete, under
different curing temperatures [Lew and Reichard 1978a, 1978b]. In this early work, the initial 在早起的工作中
concrete temperature was the same for all specimens, and specimens were moved into the
different temperature chambers after molding had been completed. 模型
适用性
In a later study at NBS, the applicability of the maturity method under simulated field
conditions was investigated [Carino et al. 1983b]. Three different concrete mixtures were used to
fabricate slabs containing push-out cylinder molds [ASTM C 873]. In addition, push-out cylinder
拉出，排出
对比底板现场强
molds were filled with concrete and stored in a moist curing room. The slabs were cured
度和成熟度的关 outdoors (during the spring). The objective was to determine whether the strength-maturity
系与在实验室养
护条件下强度和
relationships for the concrete in the field-cured push-out cylinders were the same as those for the
成熟度的关系曲 companion laboratory-cured cylinders. The results of this study were perplexing: for one mixture 复杂的，令人困惑
的
线直接的关系
there was good agreement between the strengths of field-cured and lab-cured specimens at equal 一个测试结果非常
maturities. For the other two mixtures there were significant differences. Examination of the 吻合，另外两个实
temperature histories of all specimens revealed that, for those two mixtures, the outdoor-cured 验结果差别比较大
specimens experienced different early-age concrete temperatures than the lab-cured specimens.
For equal values of the maturity index, specimens with higher early-age temperatures resulted in 初始温度高的试块
早起的强度高，长
higher initial strengths and lower long-term strength. This “crossover” behavior is illustrated in 期的强度低
Fig. 1. Therefore, it appeared that a given concrete mixture does not posses a unique strength-
maturity relationship; this behavior had been reported earlier by others [McIntosh 1956; Kleiger
1958]. 一种确定配合比的混凝土并不一定有一个唯一确定的成熟度关系曲线 冷却塔
On April 27, 1978, there was a major construction failure of a cooling tower being
constructed in Willow Island, WV. The incident resulted in the death of 51 workers, who were
脚手架 on the scaffolding system that was anchored to the partially completed shell. The NBS was again
requested to assist OSHA in determining the technical cause of the failure. The investigators
concluded that the most likely cause of the collapse was insufficient concrete strength to support
the applied construction loads [Lew 1980]. At the time of the failure, the previous lift of concrete
in the shell was only one day old and had been exposed to an estimated average ambient 环境，周围的，
外界的，环绕的
temperature less than 10 °C. This failure convinced NBS researchers that there was an urgent
need for standards on estimating in-place concrete strength during construction. Thus NBS staff 就地混凝土强度
began an in-depth study of the maturity method. The objective was to gain an understanding of
the cause of the “crossover” effect and to develop alternative procedures to eliminate the
problem [Carino 1981; Carino and Lew 1983; Carino 1982; Carino 1984]. The NBS research
laid the foundation for the development of first standard in the world on the application of the
maturity method [ASTM C 1074]. NBS是世界上第一个为成熟度方法应用标准的制定奠定了基础
In the mid to late 1990s, the Federal Highway Administration undertook efforts to publicize
products resulting from the Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP). While there was no
new research on the maturity method, SHRP Project C-204 recommended this method as an
existing technology for estimating in-place strength development in highway structures. The
FHWA’s Office of Technology Applications assembled a trailer that was driven throughout the 拖车
U.S to demonstrate the new technologies to state highway engineers. As a result of this effort,

2
 40

35

30

25

Strength, M Pa 20

15
Low T

10
H igh T

0
0 100 200 300 400 500 600
o
M aturity Index, C -day

Fig. 1— The “crossover effect” due to different early-age concrete temperature during
development of the strength-maturity relationship

many state departments of transportation showed interest in incorporating this method into their
standard practices (see for example Myers, 2000).
The purpose of this paper is to provide the reader with an understanding of the basis of the
maturity method and to explain how it is implemented. Carino [1991] provides a comprehensive
review of the history of the method, its theory, its limitations, and some of its applications.
实施，执行，应用的

Background

The origins of the maturity method can be traced to a series of papers from England dealing with
accelerated curing methods [McIntosh, 1949; Nurse, 1949; Saul, 1951]. There was a need for a
程序，手续，步骤 procedure to account for the combined effects of time and temperature on strength development
for different elevated temperature curing methods. It was proposed that the product of time and
temperature could be used for this purpose. These ideas led to the famous Nurse-Saul maturity
function: 成熟度公式
t

M= ∑ (T − T ) ∆t
0
0 (1)

where
M = maturity index, °C-hours (or °C-days),
T = average concrete temperature, °C, during the time interval ∆t,
To = datum temperature (usually taken to be -10 °C), 基准温度
t = elapsed time (hours or days), and 运行时间，经过时间，耗用时间
∆t = time interval (hours or days).

3
 Concrete
Temperature

To

t*
Time, t
图解
Fig. 2—Schematic of temperature history and temperature-time factor computed
according to Eq. (1).
The index computed by Eq. (1) was called the maturity, however, the current terminology is the 某年龄t*的温
temperature-time factor [ASTM C 1074]. Figure 2 shows a schematic temperature history and 度-时间因子等
the temperature-time factor computed according to Eq. (1). The temperature-time factor at some 于温度曲线下
和基准温度所
age t* equals the area below the temperature curve and the datum temperature. In the original 围成的面积
基准温度
proposal, the datum temperature was taken to be the temperature below which strength
development ceases. The traditional value for the datum temperature is –10 ºC. 基准温度为混凝土强度停止发展的温度，通
常这个温度为-10℃
Saul [1951] presented the following principle that has become known as the maturity rule:
“Concrete of the same mix at the same maturity (reckoned in temperature-time) has
approximately the same strength whatever combination of temperature and time go to
方程1是建立在初 make up that maturity.” 无论温度和时间的变化如何，相同配合比的混凝土在相同的成熟度(以温度-时间计算)下具有大致相同的强度
始强度是线性增长
的，但人们很快意 Equation (1) is based on the assumption that the initial rate of strength gain (during the
识到当养护温度变 acceleratory period2 that follows setting) is a linear function of temperature [Carino 1984, 1991].
化范围很大时线性
关系不成立；因 Soon after the introduction of Eq. (1), it was realized that this linear approximation might not be
此，学者也提出了 valid when curing temperatures vary over a wide range. As a result, other researchers proposed a
许多其他改进的
Nurse-Saul公式 series of alternatives to the Nurse-Saul function [Malhotra, 1971; Carino, 1991]. None of the
但都没有得到广泛 alternatives, however, received widespread acceptance, and the Nurse-Saul function was used
的应用；
worldwide until an improved function was proposed in the late 1970s.
凝土温度记录计算混 In 1977, Freiesleben Hansen and Pedersen [1977] proposed a new function to compute a
熟度的新公式
maturity index from the recorded temperature history of the concrete. This function was based on
the Arrhenius equation [Brown and LeMay, 1988] that is used to describe the effect of
temperature on the rate of a chemical reaction (this is discussed further). The new function
allowed the computation of the equivalent age of concrete as follows:

2
After cement and water are mixed together, there is a time delay before strength development begins. This period
is called the induction period. After the induction period there is rapid strength development, and this is the
acceleratory period.

4
 t −E  1 1 

∑e
−
R  T Tr 
te = ∆t (2)
0

where
te = the equivalent age at the reference temperature, 在参考温度下的同等年龄
E = apparent activation energy, J/mol, 表观活化能
R = universal gas constant, 8.314 J/mol-K, 通用气体常数
T = average absolute temperature of the concrete during interval ∆t, Kelvin, and 混凝土的平均绝对温度
Tr = absolute reference temperature, Kelvin. 绝对参考温度
混凝土的实际龄期转化为参考温度下的强度增益的等效龄期
By using Eq. (2), the actual age of the concrete is converted to its equivalent age, in terms of
strength gain, at the reference temperature. In European practice, the reference temperature is 参考温度
usually taken to be 20 °C, whereas in North American practice it is usually taken to be 23 °C.
The introduction of this function overcame one of the main limitations of the Nurse-Saul
function because it allowed for a non-linear relationship between the initial rate of strength
development and curing temperature. This temperature dependence is described by the value of
the apparent activation energy, E.
比较研究 Comparative studies showed that this new maturity function is superior to the Nurse-Saul
function [Byfors, 1980; Carino, 1982]. The use of Eq. (2) largely eliminated the discrepancies
between strength-maturity relationships developed with different initial curing temperatures, that
is, it eliminated the discrepancy at early maturity shown in Fig. 1. The new function, however, is
not able to account for the effects of early-age temperature on the later-age strength (see Carino
[1991] for a discussion on the cause of this effect). This is an inherent limitation of the maturity
method, and is discussed in the section “Strength Development Relationships.”

Effect of Temperature on Strength Gain

The key parameter in Eq. (2) is the “activation energy” that describes the effect of temperature
on the rate of strength development. In the early 1980s, the first author began a series of studies
to gain a better understanding of the maturity method [Carino, 1984]. From this work, a
procedure was developed to obtain the “activation energy” of a given cementitious mixture. The 水泥混合物
procedure is based on determining the effect of curing temperature on the rate constant for
strength development. The rate constant is related to the curing time needed to reach a certain 速率常数
fraction of the long-term strength, and can be obtained by fitting an appropriate equation to the
strength versus age data acquired under constant temperature (isothermal) curing. The procedure
to determine the “activation energy” includes the following steps: 等温线
• Cure mortar specimens at different constant temperatures. 在不同的恒温下掩护砂浆样品。
• Determine compressive strengths at regular age intervals. 测定常规龄期间隔下的抗压强度。
• Determine the value of the rate constant at each temperature by fitting a strength-age
relationship to each set of strength-age data. 通过将强度-龄期关系拟合到每组强度-龄期数据，确定每种温度下的速率常数值。
• Plot the natural logarithms of the rate constants versus the inverse of the curing temperature
(in Kelvin). 绘制速率常数与固化温度倒数的自然对数(开尔文)。
• Determine the best-fit Arrhenius equation (to be explained, see Eq. (4)) to represent the
variation of the rate constant with the temperature.
确定最佳拟合的Arrhenius方程(待解释，见等式(4))来表示速率常数随温度的变化。

5
 By using the above procedure, the “activation energy” was determined for concrete and
mortar specimens made with different cementitious materials [Tank and Carino, 1991; Carino
and Tank, 1992]. It was found that for concrete with water-cement ratio (w/c) = 0.45, the
“activation energy” ranged from 30 and 64 kJ/mol; while for w/c = 0.60 it ranged from 31 to 56
kJ/mol, depending on the type of cementitious materials and admixtures. 取决于水泥材料和外加剂的类型。
The significance of the “activation energy” is explained further. In Eq. (2), the exponential 指数项
term within the summation converts increments of curing time at the actual concrete temperature
to equivalent increments at the reference temperature. Thus the exponential term can be
considered as an age conversion factor, γ: 总和中的指数项将实际混凝土温度下的养护时间增量转换为参考
−E  1 1  温度下的等效增量。因此，指数项可以被认为是年龄转换因子
−
R  T Tr 
γ =e (3)

Figure 3 shows how the age conversion factor varies with curing temperature for different values
of the “activation energy”. (Note that in Eq. (3), absolute temperature is used.) The reference
temperature is taken as 23 °C (≈296 K). It is seen that for an “activation energy” of 30 kJ/mol,
the age conversion factor is nearly a linear function of temperature. In this case, the Nurse-Saul
equation would be a reasonably accurate maturity function to account for the combined effects of
time and temperature, because the Nurse-Saul function assumes that the rate constant varies
linearly with temperature [Carino, 1984]. For an “activation energy” of 60 kJ/mol, the age
conversion factor is a highly non-linear function of the curing temperature. In this instance, the
Nurse-Saul function would be an inaccurate maturity function. In summary, Fig. 3 shows the
nature of the error in the age conversion factor if the incorrect value of activation energy were
对于不同的表观活化能，根据方程式(3)的年龄换算系数。
used for a particular concrete mixture. The magnitude of the error would increase with increasing
difference of the curing temperature from 23 °C.
The reader will have noticed that the term “activation energy” has been used within quotation
marks. This is because the E-value that is determined when the rate constant is plotted as a
function of the curing temperature is not truly an activation energy as implied by the Arrhenius
图3显示了如果对特定的混凝土混合物使
用不正确的活化能值，则年龄转换系数中 8 读者会注意到“活化能”一词用在引号
的误差的性质。误差的大小将随着固化温 中。这是因为当速率常数被绘制成固化温
度与23℃之间的差异的增加而增加 7 度的函数时所确定的E值并不是真正的
Arrhenius所暗示的活化能
Age Conversion Factor

6
30 kJ/mol
5 45 kJ/mol
60 kJ/mol
4

0
0 10 20 30 40 50
o
Concrete Temperature, C

Fig. 3— Age conversion factor according to Eq. (3) for different values of apparent
activation energy 对于不同的表观活化能，根据方程式(3)的年龄换算系数。

6
 equation. The following discussion is provided for those unfamiliar with the concept of
activation energy or the origin of the Arrhenius equation. 下面的讨论是为那些不熟悉活化能概念或Arrhenius方程起源的人提供的。
The idea of “activation energy” was proposed by Svante Arrhenius in 1888 to explain why
“活化能”的概念是chemical reactions do not occur instantaneously when reactants are brought together, even 反应体
由斯万特・阿伦尼乌
斯(Svante though the reaction products are at a lower energy state [Brown and LeMay, 1988]. Arrhenius
Arrhenius)在1888年proposed that before the lower energy state is achieved, the reactants must have sufficient energy
提出的，用来解释为
什么当反应物聚集在to overcome an energy barrier separating the unreacted and reacted states. A physical analogy is 物理类比
一起时，即使反应产brick standing upright. The brick is in a lower energy state when lying horizontal, but it will not
物处于较低的能态，
化学反应也不会瞬间instantaneously tip over to this lower energy state. It must be pushed from the higher to the lower
发生 energy state. The energy required to push the brick from it upright position to the point of
instability, after which the brick falls on its own, is the activation energy for this process.
反应物分子
分子系统 For molecular systems, the reactant molecules are in constant motion and energy is
transferred between them as they collide [Brown and LeMay, 1988]. A certain number of
molecules will acquire sufficient energy to surmount分子的动能 the energy barrier and form the lower
energy reaction product. As the system is heated, the kinetic energy of the molecules increases
and more molecules will surmount the barrier. Thus the rate of reaction increases with increasing
temperature. Arrhenius observed that the rate constant,
速率常数
k, of many reactions increased with
temperature according to what has since been called the Arrhenius equation, as follows:
−E

k = Ae
RT
(4)
The term A is called the frequency factor and is related to the frequency of collisions and the
probability that the molecules will be favorably oriented for reaction [Brown and LeMay, 1988].
It can be seen that the age conversion factor given by Eq. (2) is the ratio of the rate constants at
two different temperatures. Arrhenius方程是根据对经历单一反应的均相化学体系的观察经验导出的
The Arrhenius equation was derived empirically from observations of homogeneous
chemical systems undergoing a single reaction. Roy and Idorn [1982] have noted that researchers
“... have cautioned that since cement is a multiphase material and also the process of cement
hydration is not a simple reaction, homogeneous reaction kinetics cannot be applied.” Thus the
“activation energy” obtained from strength gain data or degree of hydration data is not a true
activation energy for a single reaction as originally proposed by Arrhenius. This is why quotation
marks have been used.
The authors believe that the Arrhenius equation happens to be one of several equations that
can be used to describe the variation of the rate constant for strength gain (or degree of
hydration) with curing temperature. This was the motivation for a simpler function than Eq. (2)
to compute equivalent age [Carino, 1982; Tank and Carino, 1991; Carino and Tank, 1992]. It is
suggested that the following exponential equation can represent the temperature dependence of
the rate constant for strength gain: 建议使用以下指数方程来表示强度增益速率常数的温度依赖性:
k = A0 e BT (5)
where
A0 = the value of the rate constant at 0 °C,
B = temperature sensitivity factor, 1/°C, and
T = concrete temperature, °C.

7
 Based on Eq. (5) and the fact that the age conversion factor is a ratio of rate constants, the
equation for equivalent age at the reference temperature Tr is as follows:
t

te = ∑e
0
B (T− Tr )
∆t (6)

where
B = temperature sensitivity factor, 1/°C 温度敏感系数
T = average concrete temperature during time interval ∆t, °C, and
Tr = reference temperature, °C.

It was shown that Eqs. (2) and (6) would result in similar values of equivalent age [Carino,
1992]. The authors believe, however, that Eq. (6) has the following advantages over Eq. (2): 式6比式2的优势是
• The temperature sensitivity factor, B, has more physical significance compared with the
apparent activation energy: for each temperature increment of 1/B, the rate constant for
strength development increases by a factor of approximately 2.7.
• Temperatures do not have to be converted to the absolute temperature scale.
• Equation (6) is a simpler than Eq. (2). 1、与表观活化能相比，温度敏感性因子B具有更多的物理意义:每增加1/B
的温度，强度发展的速率常数增加约2.7倍。
2、温度不必转换成绝对温度。
Strength Development Relationships 3、等式(6)比等式(7)简单。(2)。

The key to developing the most appropriate maturity function for a particular concrete mixture is
to determine the variation of the rate constant with curing temperature. As was mentioned, the
rate constant is related to the rate of strength gain at a constant temperature, and it can be
obtained from an appropriate equation of strength gain versus age. Thus it is necessary to
consider some of the relationships that have been used to represent strength development of
concrete. 双曲线方程
The authors have used successfully the following hyperbolic equation for strength gain under
isothermal curing up to equivalent ages at 23 °C of about 28 days:
k(t − t0 )
S = Su (7)
1 + k(t − t 0 )
where 作者已经成功地使用了以下双曲线方程来计算在23℃下等温养护至等效龄
期约28天时的强度增益
S = strength at age t,
Su = limiting strength, 极限强度
k = rate constant, 1/day, and 速率常数
t0 = age at start of strength development.

The basis of this equation has been explained elsewhere [Carino, 1984; Knudsen, 1980].
Equation (7) assumes that strength development begins at age t0. Thus the period of gradual
在设置过程中没有
澳旅强度的逐渐发 strength development during setting is not considered. The parameters Su, k, and t0 are obtained 在设置过程中没有
展阶段；参数Su, by least-squares curve fitting to strength versus age data. The limiting strength, Su, is the 澳旅强度的逐渐发
k和t0通过最小二 展阶段；参数Su,
asymptotic value of the strength for the hyperbolic function that fits the data. As is discussed k和t0通过最小二
乘曲线拟合强度与
年龄数据得到。 below, the best fit value for Su does not necessarily represent the actual long-term strength of the 乘曲线拟合强度与
concrete, and that is why the italic font is used in the above definition. For the hyperbolic model, 年龄数据得到。
极限强度Su是拟合数据的双曲函数强度的渐近值。 双曲模型

8
 the rate constant has the following property: when the age beyond t0 is equal to 1/k, the strength
equals 50 % of the limiting strength, Su.
An equation similar to Eq. (7) was also used by Knudsen [1980] and Geiker [1983] to
represent the degree of hydration and development of chemical shrinkage as a function of age. 公式(7)对某些胶
凝体系的适用性较
Geiker [1983], however, noted that Eq. (7) gave a poor fit for certain cementitious systems. It 差。
was found that the following version of the hyperbolic equation gave a better fit to that data than
Eq. (7) [Knudsen, 1984]:
k (t − t0 )
S = Su (8)
1 + k (t − t0 )

Knudsen [1984] explained the differences between Eq. (7) and Eq. (8) in terms of the hydration
kinetics of individual cement particles. Equation (7) is based on linear kinetics, which means that
the degree of hydration of an individual cement particle is a linear function of the product of time
and the rate constant. Equation (8) is based on parabolic kinetics, which means that the degree of 抛物线动力学
hydration is a function of the square root of the product of time and the rate constant. Thus Eqs.
(7) and (8) are called the linear hyperbolic and parabolic hyperbolic models. 线性双曲和抛物线双曲模型
Freiesleben Hansen and Pedersen [1985] proposed the following exponential equation to
represent strength development of concrete under isothermal curing: 等温 护
 τ α
− 
S = Su e t 
(9)
where
t = age
τ = a time constant and
α = a shape parameter.
凝固期间
This equation can model gradual strength development during the setting period and it is also
渐近于 asymptotic to a limiting strength. The time constant τ represents the age at which the strength has
reached 0.37 Su. Thus the value of 1/τ is the rate constant for this equation. The shape parameter
α affects the slope of the curve during the acceleratory period and it affects the rate with which
the strength approaches the limiting strength [Carino, 1991].
Examples are presented to illustrate the performance of Eqs. (7), (8), and (9) in representing
actual strength development data. Figure 4(a) shows strength data for mortar cubes cured at room
temperature and tested at ages from 0.4 to 56 days. Figure 4(b) shows data for standard-cured
concrete cylinders tested at ages from 7 days to 3.5 years [Carette and Malhotra, 1991]. The
curves are the best-fit curves for Eqs. (7), (8), and (9). For the mortar data, the linear hyperbolic 砂浆，灰浆
function and the exponential function fit the data well, and these curves are nearly
indistinguishable in Fig. 4(a). For the concrete data, the parabolic hyperbolic function and the
exponential function fit the data well and these curves cannot be distinguished in Fig. 4(b).
The results shown in Fig. 4 highlight the capabilities of the various strength-age functions.
The linear hyperbolic function appears to be a good model for strength development up to about
28 days (equivalent age) but not for later ages. The parabolic hyperbolic model appears to be
better suited for modeling later age strength gain. The exponential model appears to be capable
of modeling strength gain over the full spectrum of ages.
图4中显示的结果突出了各种力量-年龄函数的能力。线性双曲函数似乎是28天(相当年龄)前强度发展的良好模型，但不适用于以后的
年龄。抛物线双曲线模型似乎更适合于模拟后期力量增长。指数模型似乎能够模拟所有年龄段的力量增长。

9
 100 70
(a) (b)
Com pressive Strength, M Pa

Com pressive Strength, MPa

65
80

60
60

55

40 Data
Data Lin Hyp
Lin Hyp 50
P ar Hyp
Par Hyp Exp
20 Exp
45

0 40
4
0.1 1 10 100 1 10 100 1000 10
Age, days Age, days

Fig. 4—Fit of strength-age models to data: (a) mortar cubes and (b) concrete cylinders

The inherent limitation of the linear hyperbolic function can be understood by considering
the ratio of the limiting strength to the 28-day strength. If the t0-term in Eq. (7) is neglected, the
following equation is obtained for this ratio:
Su 1
= β = 1+ (10)
S28 28k
Thus the value of β is directly related to the rate constant. A higher value of k results in a lower
value of β, which means a smaller difference between the limiting strength and the 28-day
strength. The rate constant is, in turn, controlled primarily by the initial rate of strength
development. The fact is that the ratio of actual long-term strength of concrete to the 28-day
strength does not obey Eq. (10). This means that value of Su obtained by fitting the linear
hyperbolic model to strength-age data will be lower than the actual long-term strength of
concrete if allowed to cure for a long time.
Based on the above discussion, one might conclude that the exponential model given by Eq.
(9) is the best for determining the rate constant at a particular curing temperature. This would be
correct if the shape parameter, α, were independent of the curing temperature. Test results show
that this is not always the case [Carino et al., 1992]. Thus a maturity function based solely upon
the variation of the rate constant (1/τ) with temperature would not be able to account accurately
for the combined effects of time and temperature on strength development.
Which strength-development model should be used? The maturity method is used typically to
monitor strength development during construction. Therefore, it is not necessary to model
accurately the strength gain at later ages. The authors believe that the linear hyperbolic model
can be used to analyze strength data, up to a 28-day equivalent age, to determine the variation of
the rate constant with curing temperature. Knudsen3 suggests that the linear hyperbolic model is
suitable up to a degree of hydration of 85 %. The suitability of the linear hyperbolic model was
also demonstrated in a recent study on the applicability of the maturity method to mortar
线性双曲线模型适用于水合程度高达85 %。线性双曲模型的适用性也在最近的一项研究中得到了证明，该研究是关于成熟度方法对低
水胶比砂浆混合物的适用性的，这种砂浆混合物是高性能混凝土中的典型混合物。
3
T. Knudsen, The Technical University of Denmark, April 1985, personal communication

10
 mixtures with low water-cementitious materials ratios, typical of those in high-performance
concrete [Carino et al., 1992].

In-place Strength

The maturity method is generally used to estimate the in-place strength of concrete by using the
in-place maturity index and a previously established relationship between maturity index and
strength. This assumes that a given concrete possesses a unique relationship between strength
and the maturity index. This assumption would be acceptable if the long-term strength of
concrete were independent of the curing temperature, but this is not the case. It is known that the
initial temperature of the concrete affects the long-term strength [Verbeck and Helmuth, 1968].
Thus if the same concrete mixture were used for a cold weather placement and a hot weather
placement, the strength would not be the same for a given maturity index. It is proposed that the
correct application of the maturity method is to estimate relative strength. Tank and Carino
[1991] proposed the following rate constant model of relative strength development, S/Su, in
terms of equivalent age te:
S k (t − t )
= r e 0r (11)
Su 1+ kr (te − t 0r )
where
kr = value of the rate constant at the reference temperature, and 参考温度下速率常数的值
t0r = age at start of strength development at the reference temperature. 参考温度下强度发展开始时的年龄。
给定混凝土混合物的样
品，如果具有相同的等 Equation (11), leads to the following modified maturity rule [Carino 1991]:
效龄期，并且具有足够
的水化水分，则无论其 Samples of a given concrete mixture which have the same equivalent age and which
实际温度历史如何，其
极限强度的分数都是相
have had a sufficient supply of moisture for hydration will have developed equal
等的。 fractions of their limiting strength irrespective of their actual temperature histories.
The previous discussion, however, has shown that, for the linear hyperbolic model, the ratio S/Su
may not indicate the true fraction of the long-term strength because the calculated value of Su
may not be the actual long-term strength. This deficiency can be overcome by expressing relative
strength as a fraction of the strength at an equivalent age of 28-days. By using the definition of β
in Eq. (10), the relative strength gain equation would be as follows:
S k (t − t )
= β r e 0r (12)
S28 1+ k r (te − t 0r )
拟合式(7)，强度对比等效龄期的数据。
根据最佳拟合方程估算28天等效龄期时的强度，S28。
The value of β would be obtained as follows: 除以S28。

• Fit Eq. (7), to the data of strength versus equivalent age.

• Estimate the strength at an equivalent age of 28 days, S28, from the best-fit equation.
• Divide the value of Su by S28.

By using Eq. (12) and the measured in-place equivalent age, one can estimate the fraction of the
28-day strength that will have developed. It is, however, not possible to estimate S28 without
additional testing of the concrete. This is an inherent limitation in the application of the maturity
method.
通过使用等式(12)和测得的现场等效龄期，人们可以估计现场强度发展到28天强度的分数。然而，如果不对混凝土进行额外测
试，就不可能估算28天强度S28。这是成熟度方法应用的固有限制。

11
 8 -0.6
(a) (b)
7 -0.8

6 -1.0
Initial Setting Time, h

Measured

Ln(1/Time)
5 23 C Equivalent -1.2

4 -1.4
y = 15.646 - 4978x
3 -1.6

2 -1.8

1 -2.0
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 0.0032 0.0033 0.0033 0.0034 0.0035 0.0035 0.0036
o
Temperature, C 1/Temperature (1/K)

Fig. 5—a) Initial setting time versus temperature; b) plot of natural logarithm of inverse of
setting time versus inverse of absolute temperature (Pinto and Hover 1999)
设定时间倒数对绝对温度倒数的自然对数图

Setting Time and Maturity

Pinto and Hover (1999) investigated whether the maturity method was applicable to the setting 混凝土凝固时间
time of concrete measured in accordance with ASTM C 403/C 403M. The solid circles in Figure
5(a) show the reported initial setting times as a function of the average temperature. They found
that the setting time at different temperatures could be used to obtain an apparent activation 自然对数
energy to represent the temperature dependence of setting time. The inverses of the setting times
were used as rate constants, and the natural logarithms of the rate constants were plotted as a
function of the inverse of absolute temperature. As shown in Fig. 5(b), a straight line can be
fitted to the transformed data. The slope of the line represents the negative of the apparent
activation energy divided by the gas constant (Eq. (2)), and is referred to as Q in ASTM C 1074.
The value of Q in this case is 4978 1/K, which is close to the value of 5000 1/K recommended in
ASTM C 1074 for concrete with Type I cement. The measured setting times can be converted to
the equivalent setting times at 23 ºC by using Eq. (2). These values are shown as the open
squares in Fig. 5(a). It is seen that the equivalent setting times are very close to the same value.
Thus by measuring setting times at two extreme temperatures, it is possible to estimate the
setting times for any temperature within the extremes.
Aside from demonstrating that setting times at different temperatures can be estimated on the
basis of the maturity method, Pinto and Hover’s work may lead to a simplified method for
determining the apparent activation energy associated with strength gain. Measuring setting
times at different temperatures is simpler than the procedure recommended in ASTM C 1074,
which involves measuring strength development of mortar mixtures. This is worthy of additional
study. 除了证明在不同温度下的凝结时间可以根据成熟度方法来估计，平托和哈弗的工作可能导致一种确定与强度增加相关的表观
活化能的简化方法。测量不同温度下的凝结时间比美国材料试验标准C 1074中推荐的程序简单，该程序涉及测量砂浆混合物
的强度发展。这值得进一步研究。
ASTM Practice C 1074

In 1987, ASTM adopted a standard practice on the use of the maturity method to estimate in-
place strength [ASTM C 1074]. Application of the maturity method requires the following steps:

12
 （1）确定将用于施工的特定混凝土的适当成熟度函数。（2）抗压强度与成熟度指数关系的确定。（3）现场成熟度指数的测量和现场强
度的估计。
• Determination of the appropriate maturity function for the specific concrete that will be used
in construction.
• Determination of the relationship between compressive strength and the maturity index.
• Measurement of the in-place maturity index and estimation of the in-place strength.
These steps are shown schematically in Fig. 6. 计划性地；按照图式；示意地
ASTM C 1074 permits the user to express the maturity index using either the temperature-
time factor based on Eq. (1) or equivalent age based on Eq. (2). For the Nurse-Saul function, it is
recommended that the datum temperature be taken as 0 °C if ASTM Type I cement is used
without admixtures and the expected curing temperature is within 0 °C and 40 °C. For the
Arrhenius equation, an activation energy of 41.5 kJ/mol is recommended. For other conditions or
when maximum accuracy is desired, the best value of the datum temperature or activation energy
should be determined experimentally. 实验性地；实验式地；实验上；用实验方法
The ASTM standard provides procedures for developing the strength-maturity relationship
and for estimating the in-place strength. In addition, a procedure is provided for obtaining the
datum temperature or activation energy, if that is desired.
基准温度或活化能
Datum Temperature or Activation Energy—The procedure for determining the datum
temperature or activation energy follows the approach
砂浆立方体
discussed previously in the section “Effect
of Temperature on Strength Gain.” Basically, mortar cubes made with the materials to be used in
construction are cured at three temperatures. Two of the curing temperatures should be the
minimum and maximum curing temperatures expected for the in-place concrete, and the third
temperature should be midway between the extremes. The cubes are tested for compressive
strength at regular time intervals.
Alternative procedures are permitted for determining the rate constants under the three curing
conditions. The simplest approach is to use statistical analysis software that allows least-squares
fitting of Eq. (7). The strength-age data for each curing temperature are used to obtain the k value
in Eq. (7). If the user does not have this capability, an alternative approach is to determine the
最终设定时间 final setting times at the three curing temperatures using the penetration resistance method
[ASTM C 403/C 403M]. The final setting times are used to approximate the ages when strength
development is assumed to begin, that is, t0. For each curing temperature, the reciprocals of the 对于每个固化温
cube strengths are plotted as a function of 1/(t-t0). This approach makes use of a transformation 度，立方强度的倒
数绘制为1/(t-t0)
of Eq. (7) that results in a linear equation between the inverse of strength and the inverse of age 的函数。
[Carino 1991]. For each temperature, the least-squares best-fit straight line is determined, and the
rate constant is obtained by dividing the intercept by the slope of line.确定最小二乘最佳拟合直线，用截距除以直线斜率得到速
率常数。
基准温度 To obtain the datum temperature, the rate constants are plotted as a function of temperature
拦截 and the best-fit straight line is determined. The intercept of the line with the temperature axis is
the datum temperature. To obtain the activation energy, the natural logarithms of the rate
constants are plotted against the reciprocals of the absolute curing temperatures. The negative of
the slope of the straight line equals the activation energy divided by the gas constant (referred to
as Q in ASTM C 1074). 为了获得活化能，速率常数的自然对数相对于绝对固化温度的倒数作图。直线斜率的负值等于活化能除以气体常数

13
 Laboratory Field
Testing Measurement

Cube Tests
k

T1 T2 T3
T
Cylinder Tests
Structure
E or T0

Strength

S*
5.6 Maturity
Computer

M* Maturity M*
Index

Fig. 6—Application of the maturity method requires laboratory testing and field
measurement of temperature history

Strength-maturity Relationship—To develop the strength-maturity relationship, cylindrical

concrete specimens are prepared using the mixture proportions and constituents of the concrete 混凝土的成分
to be used in construction. These specimens are prepared according to the usual procedures for
making and curing test specimens in the laboratory.
After the cylinders are molded, temperature sensors are embedded at the centers of at least
two cylinders. The sensors are connected to instruments that automatically compute maturity or
to temperature recording devices.
The specimens are cured in a water bath or in a moist curing room. At ages of 1, 3, 7, 14, and
28 days, compression tests are performed on at least two specimens. At the time of testing, the
average maturity value for the instrumented specimens is recorded. If maturity instruments are
used, the average of the displayed values is recorded. If temperature recorders are used, the
maturity is evaluated according to Eq. (1) or Eq. (2). A recording time interval of one-half hour
or less should be used for the first 48 hours, and longer time intervals are permitted for the
remainder of the curing period.

14
 50

Eq. (7)
Eq. (13)
40

Strength, M Pa
30

20

10

0
0 1 10 100
o
Equivalent Age at 23 C, days
对数函数
Fig. 7— Comparison of strength-maturity relationships; the logarithmic function, Eq. (13),
does not fit the data as well as the linear hyperbolic function, Eq. (7).
线性双曲函数

A plot is made of the average compressive strength as a function of the average maturity
index. A best-fit smooth curve is drawn through the data, or regression analysis may be used to
determine the best-fit curve for an appropriate strength-maturity relationship. The resulting curve
would be used to estimate the in-place strength of that concrete mixture.
One of the popular strength-maturity relationships is the following logarithmic equation
proposed by Plowman (1956): 对数函数

S = a + b log ( M ) (13)
where
a = strength for maturity index M =1,
b = slope of line, and
M = maturity index

Equation (13) is popular because of its simplicity; it plots as a straight line when a log scale is
used for the maturity index axis, but it has its limitations. It does not provide a good
representation of the relationship between strength and maturity index for low or high values of
the maturity index. It predicts that strength keeps on increasing with maturity index, that is, there
is no limiting strength. In fact the slope of the line, b, represents the strength increase for every
ten-fold increase in maturity index. Figure 6 illustrates that it may not be the most appropriate
equation to use for the strength-maturity relationship. In this case, strength versus equivalent age
data are fitted with Eq. (13) and the linear hyperbolic equation given by Eq. (7). It is clear that
Eq. (13) does not represent the relationship between strength and maturity index over the range
of values from about 0.4 d to 28 d shown in the Fig. 7.
The ASTM standard assumes that the initial temperature of the concrete in the field is
approximately the same as the laboratory temperature when the cylinders were prepared. If the
actual early-age temperatures are significantly greater than the laboratory temperatures, the

15
 limiting in-place strength is reduced. Thus the in-place strength may be over-estimated by the
strength-maturity relationship.

Estimating In-place Strength—The procedure for estimating the in-place strength requires
measuring the in-place maturity. As soon as is practicable after concrete placement, temperature
sensors are placed in the fresh concrete. The sensors should be installed at locations in the
structure that are critical in terms of exposure conditions and structural requirements. The
importance of this step cannot be over emphasized when the strength estimates are being used
for timing the start of critical construction operations.
The sensors are connected to maturity instruments or temperature recording devices that are
activated as soon as is practicable after concrete placement. When a strength estimate is desired,
the maturity index from the maturity instrument is read or the maturity index is evaluated from
the temperature record. Using the maturity values and the previously established strength-
maturity relationship, compressive strengths at the locations of the sensors are estimated.
Because the temperature history is the only measurement made in the field, there is no
assurance that the in-place concrete has the correct mixture proportions. Therefore, ASTM C
1074 requires verification of the potential strength of the in-place concrete before performing
critical operations, such as formwork removal or post-tensioning. Failure to do this can lead to
drastic consequences in the event of undetected batching errors, such as using excessive amounts
of cement replacements or retarding admixtures. Alternative methods for verification of concrete
strength include: (1) other in-place tests that measure an actual strength property of the in-place
concrete; (2) early-age compressive strength tests of standard-cured specimens molded from
samples of the concrete in the structure; or (3) compressive strength tests on specimens molded
from samples of the concrete in the structure and subjected to accelerated curing. As was
mentioned in the section “In-place Strength,” the maturity method can only provide information
on relative strength gain.

Summary

This paper provides an introduction to the maturity method for estimating in-place strength
development of concrete during construction. Proper application of this relatively simple
procedure can result in savings by allowing construction operations to be performed safely at the
earliest possible time. To assure safety, however, the user needs to understand the inherent
approximations and limitations of the method. These are some of the authors’ ideas about the
maturity method: 近似性和局限性
成熟度函数与初始强
度发展的温度敏感性• The maturity function is related to the temperature sensitivity of initial strength development,
有关，不存在适用于 and there is no single maturity function that is applicable to all concrete mixtures. The
所有混凝土混合料的
单一成熟度函数。给 applicable maturity function for a given concrete can be obtained by measuring the variation
定混凝土的适用成熟 of the rate constant with the curing temperature.
度函数可通过测量速
率常数随养护温度的• The linear hyperbolic function, Eq. (7), is recommended for analyzing strength-age data to
变化而获得。
obtain the rate constants at different curing temperatures. 线性双曲函数，方程(7)，建议用于分析强度-龄期数据，以获得不
同养护温度下的速率常数。
• Equation (5) can be used to represent the variation of the rate constant with curing
temperature. The temperature sensitivity factor governs the rate at which the rate constant
increases with temperature and is analogous to the “activation energy” in the Arrhenius
equation.
等式(5)可用于表示速率常数随固化温度的变化。温度敏感性因子决定速率常数随温度增加的速率，类似于阿伦尼乌斯方程中的“活化能”。

16
 等效年龄可使用公式(6)从温度历史中计算得出，这在形式上比基于Arrhenius 的Eq（2）简单
•
The equivalent age can be calculated from the temperature history using Eq. (6). This is
simpler in form than Eq. (2) based on the Arrhenius equation.
对数强度-成熟度关系，
• The logarithmic strength-maturity relationship, Eq. (13), needs to be used with caution
式(13)，需要谨慎使
用，因为它可能不是最
适合实力与成熟度指数
because it may not be the best fit to strength versus maturity index data.
数据的。 • The maturity method is more reliable in estimating relative strength development rather than
absolute strength. 成熟度方法在估计相对强度发展方面比绝对强度更可靠。
• Critical construction operations should not be initiated on the basis of maturity index values
and the strength-maturity relationship without further verification that the in-place concrete
has the expected strength potential.
关键施工作业不应基于成熟度指数值和强度-成熟度关系启动，除非进一步验证现场混凝土具有预期的强度潜力。

References
估算混凝土强度的现场方法
ACI Committee 228, 1995, “In-Place Methods to Estimate Concrete Strength,” ACI
228.1R(1995), American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI.
用抗渗透性测定混
ASTM C 403/C 403M, 1999, “Test Method for Time of Setting of Concrete Mixtures by
凝土混合物凝固时 Penetration Resistance,” 2000 ASTM Standards Vol. 04.02, ASTM, West Conshohocken, PA
间的试验方法
ASTM C 873, 1999, “Test Method for Compressive Strength of Concrete Cylinders Cast in
Place in Cylindrical Molds,” 2000 ASTM Standards Vol. 04.02, ASTM, West Conshohocken,
PA 在圆柱形模具中浇铸的混凝土圆柱抗压强度的试验方法 用成熟度法估算混凝土强度的实施规程
ASTM C 1074, 1998, “Practice for Estimating Concrete Strength by the Maturity Method,” 2000
ASTM Standards Vol. 04.02, ASTM, West Conshohocken, PA
Brown, T.L. and LeMay, H.E., 1988, Chemistry: The Central Science, 4th Ed., Prentice Hall,
Englewood Cliffs, NJ, pp. 494-498.
Byfors, J., 1980, “Plain Concrete at Early Ages,” Swedish Cement and Concrete Research
Institute Report 3:80, 464 p.
Carette, G.G. and Malhotra, V.M., 1991, “Long-term Strength Development of Silica Fume
Concrete,” paper presented at CANMET/ACI International Workshop on the Use of Silica
Fume, April 7-9, 1991, Washington, DC
Carino, N.J., Woodward, K.A., Leyendecker, E.V., and Fattal, S.G, 1983a, “A Review of the
Skyline Plaza Collapse,” Concrete International, Vol. 5, No. 7, July, pp 35-42.
Carino, N.J., 1992, “Recent Developments in Nondestructive of Concrete,” in Advances in
Concrete Technology, V.M. Malhotra, Ed., Energy, Mines and Resources, Ottawa, MSL 92-
6(R), pp. 281-328. 成熟度方法在高性能混凝土中的适用性
Carino, N.J., Knab, L.I., and Clifton, J.R., 1992, “Applicability of the Maturity Method to High-
Performance Concrete,” NISTIR-4819, Nat. Inst. of Stands. and Tech. (US), May, 64 p.
Available from NTIS, Springfield, VA, 22161, PB93-157451/AS 不同水泥和外加剂混凝土的成熟度函数
Carino, N.J. and Tank, R.C., 1992, “Maturity Functions for Concrete Made with Various
Cements and Admixtures,” ACI Materials Journal, Vol. 89, No. 2, March-April, pp. 188-
196.
Carino, N.J., 1991, “The Maturity Method,” in Handbook on Nondestructive Testing of
Concrete, Eds. V.M. Malhotra and N.J. Carino, CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL, pp. 101-146.
Carino, N.J., 1984, “The Maturity Method: Theory and Application,” Journal of Cement,
Concrete, and Aggregates (ASTM), Vol. 6, No. 2, Winter, pp. 61-73.

17
Carino, N. J., 1982, “Maturity Functions for Concrete,” Proceedings, RILEM International
Conference on Concrete at Early Ages (Paris), Ecole Nationale des Ponts et Chausses, Paris,
Vol. I, pp. 123-128. 成熟度法预测早期温度对混凝土强度的影响
Carino, N. J., Lew, H. S., and Volz, C. K., 1983b, “Early Age Temperature Effects on Concrete
Strength Prediction by the Maturity Method,” Journal of American Concrete Institute, Vol.
80, No. 2, March-April, pp. 93-101. 温度对砂浆强度-成熟度关系的影响
Carino, N.J. and Lew, H.S., 1983, “Temperature Effects on Strength-Maturity Relations of
Mortar,” ACI Journal, Vol. 80, No. 3 , May/June 1983, pp. 177-182.
Freiesleben Hansen, P. and Pedersen, J., 1985, “Curing of Concrete Structures,” CEB
Information Bulletin 166, May, 42 p. 混凝土控制养护和硬化的成熟度计算
Freiesleben Hansen, P. and Pedersen J., 1977, “Maturity Computer for Controlled Curing and
Hardening of Concrete,” Nordisk Betong, 1, pp. 19-34.
Geiker, M., 1983, “Studies of Portland Cement Hydration by Measurements of Chemical
Shrinkage and Systematic Evaluation of Hydration Curves by Means of the Dispersion
Model,” PhD Dissertation, Technical University of Denmark, 259 p.
Goldsmith, W., 1965, Impact: The Theory and Physical Behavior of Colliding Solids, Edward
Arnold Press, Ltd., pp. 24-50.
Klieger, P., 1956, “Effects of Mixing and Curing Temperatures on Concrete Strength,” Journal
of the American Concrete, Vol. 54, No. 12, June, pp. 1063-1082.
Knudsen, T., 1980, “On Particle Size Distribution in Cement Hydration,” Proceedings, 7th
International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement (Paris, 1980), Editions Septima, Paris,
Vol. II, I-170-175.
Knudsen, T., 1984, “The Dispersion Model for Hydration of Portland Cement: I. General
Concepts,” Cement and Concrete Research, Vol. 14, pp. 622-630. 混凝土强度不足导致西弗吉尼亚冷却塔倒塌
Lew, H.S., 1980, “West Virginia Cooling Tower Collapse Caused by Inadequate Concrete
Strength,” Civil Engineering-ASCE, V. 50, No. 2, February, pp. 62-67.
Lew, H. S., and Reichard, T. W., 1978a, “Mechanical Properties of Concrete at Early Ages,”
Journal of the American Concrete Institute, Vol. 75, No. 10, 加速强度试验中“混凝土从成熟到强度的预测”
October, pp. 533-542.
Lew, H. S., and Reichard, T. W., 1978b, “Prediction of Strength of Concrete from Maturity,” in
Accelerated Strength Testing, V.M. Malhotra, ed., SP-56, American Concrete Institute,
Detroit, MI, pp. 229-248. 成熟度概念与混凝土强度的估算
Malhotra, V.M., 1971, “Maturity Concept and the Estimation of Concrete Strength,” Information
Circular IC 277, Department of Energy Mines Resources (Canada), Nov., 43 p.
McIntosh, J. D., 1949, “Electrical Curing of Concrete,” Magazine of Concrete Research, Vol. 1,
No. 1, January 1949, pp. 21-28.
McIntosh, J. D., 1956, “The Effects of Low-temperature Curing on the Compressive Strength of
Concrete,” Proceedings, RILEM Symposium on Winter Concreting (Copenhagen 1956),
Danish Institute for Building Research Copenhagen, Session BII, 18 pp
Myers, J. J., 2000, “The Use of the Maturity Method as a Quality Control Tool for High-
Performance Concrete Bridge Decks,” Proceedings PCI/FHWA/FIB International
Symposium on High Performance Concrete, L. S. Johal, Ed., Precast/Prestressed Institute,
Chicago, pp.316-330. 成熟度法作为高性能混凝土桥面质量控制工具的应用
Nurse, R. W., 1949, “Steam Curing of Concrete,” Magazine of Concrete Research, Vol. l, No. 2,
1949, pp. 79-88. 成熟度方法在设定时间中的应用
Pinto, R. C. A. and Hover, K. C., 1999, “Application of Maturity Approach to Setting Times”,
ACI Materials Journal, Vol. 96, No. 6, pp. 686-691.

18
 混凝土的成熟度和强度
Plowman, J. M., 1956, “Maturity and the Strength of Concrete,” Magazine of Concrete
Research, Vol. 8, No. 22, March, pp. 13-22.
Roy, D. M., and Idorn, G. M., 1982, “Hydration, Structure, and Properties of Blast Furnace Slag
Cements, Mortars and Concrete,” Journal of the American Concrete Institute, Vol. 79, No. 6,
November-December, pp. 444-457.
Saul, A. G. A., 1951, “Principles Underlying the Steam Curing of Concrete at Atmospheric
Pressure,” Magazine of Concrete Research, Vol. 2, No. 6, March, pp. 127-140.
Tank, R.C. and Carino, N.J., 1991, “Rate Constant Functions for Strength Development of
Concrete,” ACI Materials Journal, Vol. 88, No. 1, Jan-Feb, pp. 74-83.
Verbeck, G. J. and Helmuth, R. H., 1968, “Structure and Physical Properties of Cement Paste,”
Proceedings, Fifth International Symposium on the Chemistry of Cement, Part III, 1-32
(Tokyo 1968).

19