What is a primary risk associated with hot weather concreting?

The primary risk associated with hot weather concreting is incomplete hydration. When concrete is exposed to high temperatures, the curing process can be adversely affected because the water in the mix can evaporate too quickly. This rapid evaporation can lead to insufficient moisture in the mix, preventing the cement from fully hydrating. As a result, the concrete may not achieve its intended strength and durability, leading to issues such as cracking, shrinkage, and reduced overall performance.

In hot weather conditions, it is essential to manage the water content in the mix carefully and employ techniques such as using cooler materials, providing shade for mixing and placement, and applying curing compounds to mitigate the risks associated with rapid moisture loss. Properly addressing hydration ensures that the concrete achieves the desired properties required for the structural application.

While other options may present issues in hot weather, they do not encompass the primary risk as directly as incomplete hydration does. For example, excessive workability can be managed through proper mix design, and while corrosion of steel might be a concern in various conditions, it relates more to chlorides and environmental exposure than directly to hot weather itself. Additionally, delayed setting tends to be more of a concern in cold weather conditions than in hot weather situations. Thus, incomplete hydration is the