Curing is the process of controlling the rate and
extent of moisture loss from concrete during
cement hydration. It may be either after it has
been placed in position (or during the manufacture
of concrete products), thereby providing time for
the hydration of the cement to occur. Since the
hydration of cement does take time – days, and
even weeks rather than hours – curing must be
undertaken for a reasonable period of time if the
concrete is to achieve its potential strength and
durability. Curing may also encompass the control
of temperature since this affects the rate at which
cement hydrates.