Experimental Investigation of the Effect of Mold Type and Mold Oil on the Physical Characteristics of Self-Compacting Concrete

Today, in addition to the durability properties of concrete, its aesthetic qualities and appearance are also being researched and examined. The appearance of concrete depends on the type of concrete, the characteristics of the materials, the method of construction, and the curing process. Among the various parameters affecting the aesthetic appearance of concrete during construction, the type of formwork, the type of release agent used, and the curing conditions are significant factors. The main objective of this research is to investigate the parameters of formwork type, curing conditions, and type of release agent on the surface quality of concrete. In this context, various samples were produced using self-compacting concrete with ABS, PVC, untreated wooden, MDF, and metallic formworks, utilizing two types of release agents based on water and petroleum solvents, or with no release agent at all. Two curing conditions were also examined: curing in water and curing in an environment outside water. Different tests, including water absorption, abrasion, Schmidt hammer, and water droplet penetration tests, were conducted. The water droplet test was proposed and examined for a rapid assessment of the aesthetic quality of concrete. Test results show ABS and PVC samples perform well under various conditions. ABS with solvent-based mold oil resists water absorption, while PVC with water-based oil shows good impact resistance. ABS with water-based oil excels in compressive strength. Samples without mold oil have better surface quality. Non-water-cured samples offer superior aesthetics, while water-cured ones have enhanced physical properties due to higher density. Material choice and manufacturing conditions significantly impact product quality, aiding production optimization.