What does it mean to cure concrete?

Curing is one of the most important steps in concrete construction , because proprrt curing greatly increases concrete streength and durability , COncrete hardens as a result of hydration L the chemical reaction between cement and water . However , hydration occurs only if water is available and if the concrete's te,[eratre staus witjom a suitable range . During the curing period from five to seven days after placement for conventional conctrete-the concrete surface needs to be kept moist to permit the hydration process , new concrete can be wet with soaking hoses , sprinkers or covered with wet burlap , or can be coated with commercially availabble curing compounds , which seal in moisture .