1. What is the Evaporation Rate Formula for Concrete?

The evaporation rate formula calculates the rate at which water evaporates from concrete surfaces. This is crucial in construction to prevent plastic shrinkage cracking and ensure proper curing conditions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the evaporation rate formula:

Where:

• \( W \) — Weight loss of water (kg)
• \( A \) — Surface area of concrete (m²)
• \( T \) — Time period (hours)

Explanation: The formula calculates the mass of water evaporated per unit area per unit time, which is essential for determining proper curing conditions.

3. Importance of Evaporation Rate Calculation

Details: Monitoring evaporation rates helps prevent plastic shrinkage cracks in fresh concrete. High evaporation rates require protective measures like fogging, windbreaks, or evaporation retardants.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight loss in kg, surface area in square meters, and time in hours. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a safe evaporation rate for concrete?
A: Generally, evaporation rates below 0.5 kg/m²/h are considered safe. Rates above 1.0 kg/m²/h require immediate protective measures.

Q2: How is weight loss measured in practice?
A: Weight loss is typically measured using evaporation pans or by weighing concrete samples before and after the time period.

Q3: What factors affect evaporation rate?
A: Air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and concrete temperature significantly influence evaporation rates.

Q4: When is evaporation rate monitoring most critical?
A: During hot, dry, and windy conditions when evaporation rates are highest, typically in summer months or arid climates.

Q5: How can high evaporation rates be controlled?
A: Methods include fogging, using evaporation retardants, erecting windbreaks, scheduling pours during cooler times, and prompt curing.