2.2.2. Batching Procedure and Curing Conditions

The fine aggregate was first poured into the 50-litre capacity pan-mixer, followed by the binders, which had first been thoroughly hand-mixed to enhance the MCC's dispersion until a uniform colour was observed. After mixing for about 30 s, the dry SAP particles were then poured in, and all the fine contents were mixed for another 30 s. The coarse aggregate was then added, and mixing continued for another 1 min before water already mixed with superplasticiser (Masterglenium Sky 504—a PCE) was added. The mixing continued for another 3 min, as recommended in the literature [21–23,25]. Only about half of the mixer volume was maintained as the maximum volume of concrete produced per batch, noting that the mix is very stiff for these low W/B concrete and becomes difficult if 50% volume of the mixer is exceeded. Once the mixture met the required workability and consistency for the specified design mix, a specimen for the various tests was cast in two layers on a vibrating table into the previously oiled moulds. The cast specimen was then covered in the laboratory with thick vapour barriers (jute bags) and allowed to harden for 24 h, before demoulding and placed to cure immersed in water in a curing tank at 20 ± 3 ◦C till the requisite curing ages (7, 28, 56 and 90 days respectively) before testing in accordance to standards [31].
