The mechanical strength of concrete can be affected by many conditions, among them the proportion of the mixture and the influence of external agents, such as external temperatures. Thus, the objective of the paper is to analyze the influence of low temperature on the evolution of concrete strength, from the molding of tests specimens cured at various temperatures. The specimens were submitted in the first 7 days, as curing temperatures ranging from 0ºC to 25ºC, simulating the lowest possible value for the start of the cement hydrations reactions to the considered ideal for development resistances. The results of the experimental program demonstrated at lower cure temperatures the strength of the mixture develops more slowly, as might be expected, but also found after 14 days, the strength of the mixtures was reversed, i.e., concretes cured at higher temperatures lower values. Thus, it was concluded the concrete in cold weather can be beneficial to its mechanical performance to over time, at the expense constructive steps in normal temperature.
external agents; low temperatures cure; evolution of resistance; hydration heat of Portland cement paste
