Evaporation Rate Calculator

Estimate surface moisture evaporation rate per ACI 305 to help prevent plastic shrinkage cracking during placement.

Evaporation Rate Calculator

Estimate surface moisture evaporation rate per ACI 305

When the evaporation rate is at or above 0.10 lb/ft²/hr, protection measures are recommended to prevent plastic shrinkage cracking. Rates at or above 0.25 lb/ft²/hr indicate conditions not favorable for concrete placement.

Environmental Conditions
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Site Conditions
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Important Information

Protection Measures Recommended

When either of these conditions exist:

  • The rate of evaporation is at or greater than 0.10 lb/sq.ft./hr.
  • Two or more of the following factors are exceeded: ambient temperature greater than 80°F, relative humidity less than 60%, or average wind speed greater than 10 mph.

Conditions Not Favorable for Concrete Placement

When either of these conditions exist:

  • The rate of evaporation is at or greater than 0.25 lb/sq.ft./hr.
  • All of the following factors are exceeded: ambient temperature greater than 80°F, relative humidity less than 40%, and average wind speed greater than 15 mph.

Protecting Your Placement

Surface evaporation can be slowed using methods such as wind breaks, fogging, evaporation retarders, and early curing, but these methods do not guarantee that plastic shrinkage will not occur. Bailey Ready Mix can help you plan for challenging placement conditions and recommend the right mix design for your project.

This calculator is intended as a planning tool only and does not guarantee successful concrete finishing. Always evaluate job site conditions at the time of placement.

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