2.2. Specimen preparations and curing regimes
Batching and mixing were conducted in accordance with BS 1881-125:1986. In
the process of mixing the concrete however, latex is thoroughly dispersed into the
mixing water by gentle stirring prior to discharge into the mixer. Mixing was
carried out in a pan mixer conforming to BS 1881-125:1986 and casting was
conducted in accordance with BS 1881-108:1983. Standard steel cube molds;
100 mm were employed for all specimens. However, 75 mm diameter cored specimens
are used as water absorption samples. In fact, coring was diligently carried
out in order to avoid visible cracks. Fig. 1 presents coring and cored samples for
water absorption assessment.