Asian Paints has introduced CureAssure, the world’s first internal curing concrete additive, in the UAE, marking a significant shift in concrete curing practices. The self-curing liquid additive is designed to eliminate the need for conventional external curing methods, offering potential water savings of up to eight billion liters annually in the region. Developed specifically for concrete and plaster curing, CureAssure targets the root causes of hydration inefficiencies, improving structural reliability while reducing cracks.
Advanced Formulation and Functionality
CureAssure integrates specialized polymers engineered to optimize internal moisture retention. Unlike traditional surface curing, which relies on external water application or curing compounds, CureAssure embeds water directly within the concrete matrix. This approach ensures uniform hydration, reduces shrinkage-induced stresses, and enhances the long-term durability of the material.
The additive is chloride-free and compatible with all Portland cements conforming to international standards, including ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and slag-replaced cements (SRC). It can also be combined with pozzolanic materials such as ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS), pulverized fly ash (PFA), micro-silica, and all types of water-reducing (WR) or superplasticizer (SR) admixtures. Asian Paints recommends trial mixes to determine the optimal performance when combined with other admixtures.
Applications Across Concrete Types
CureAssure is suitable for a wide range of concrete applications, including pumped concrete, precast elements, high fluidity concrete, high-strength concrete, ready-mix concrete, and long-distance transport concrete. Its versatility allows for consistent curing across complex construction projects, where traditional surface curing may be challenging.
The additive is added to the gauging water or simultaneously with water during batching at the plant. Direct addition to the dry mix is prohibited. For optimal results, a minimum wet mixing time of 60 seconds is recommended, with the remaining gauging water added after two-thirds of the mixing period to prevent surplus water in the concrete.
Reducing Cracks Through Controlled Hydration
By retaining moisture internally, CureAssure facilitates controlled and uniform hydration, which significantly reduces shrinkage cracks. Uniform curing minimizes internal stresses and ensures the concrete achieves its designed strength and durability, independent of external environmental conditions.
Developing CureAssure involved rethinking concrete curing from the inside out. According to Amit DasGupta, Chief Senior Manager – Technology at AP Global, the approach focuses on the root cause by embedding water availability directly within the concrete, rather than treating surface symptoms. This method produces more robust and reliable concrete structures.
Joseph Eapen, CEO of Asian Paints, emphasized that CureAssure is not merely a product launch but a redefinition of a foundational step in construction, reflecting the company’s commitment to practical and sustainable solutions.
Implications for Sustainable Construction
CureAssure presents a sustainable approach to concrete curing, particularly in water-scarce regions. By reducing dependency on external curing methods, the additive lowers water consumption, labor requirements, and potential material waste. Its adoption can influence best practices in high-rise buildings, infrastructure projects, and precast concrete manufacturing.
The innovation highlights a shift toward embedded curing technologies, where moisture control is designed into the concrete itself rather than applied externally. CureAssure allows for stronger, more durable, and crack-resistant structures while contributing to water conservation and operational efficiency.
Asian Paints’ CureAssure demonstrates the potential of chemical innovation in construction. By addressing the internal hydration process, the additive ensures consistent performance, reduces shrinkage cracks, and supports sustainable construction practices. Its launch signals a move toward more efficient, water-conscious, and reliable concrete applications in modern infrastructure projects.
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