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What minimum temperature must concrete be maintained to prevent damage from marginal freezing?

  1. 40 degrees

  2. 50 degrees

  3. 60 degrees

  4. 70 degrees

The correct answer is: 50 degrees

To prevent damage to concrete from marginal freezing, it is important to ensure that the temperature of the concrete is maintained at a minimum level that allows for proper hydration and curing. The minimum temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit is typically recommended for fresh concrete. At this temperature, the risk of freezing is significantly reduced, enabling the concrete to set properly and gain adequate strength. If the temperature falls below this threshold, the hydration process can be disrupted, leading to incomplete strength development and potential cracking or other forms of damage. Different factors like wind, sun exposure, and the specific mix design can affect this threshold, but the consensus for practical applications is that maintaining a temperature of at least 50 degrees is crucial for ensuring structural integrity during the critical early stages of curing.