=+44. A new concrete structure that experiences cracking within the first seven days after setting is often said to have experienced “early-age cracking.”

This is usually a precursor to later-age cracking and other problems that lead to an overall weakening of the structure. According to the article

“Early-Age Cracking Tendency and Ultimate Degree of Hydration of Internally Cured Concrete”

(J. of Materials in Civil Engr., 2012: 1025–1033), more than 60% of surveyed transportation agencies regard early-age transverse cracking to be problematic. The authors investigated the effectiveness of a process known as internal curing to mitigate early-age cracking of bridge deck concretes.