Where should cylinders that are to be field cured be stored?

Cylinders that are to be field cured should be stored as near as possible to the same formed work. This practice is important because it allows the test specimens to experience similar environmental conditions to the curing element they represent. By positioning the cylinders close to the actual concrete being poured and cured, factors such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to sunlight are consistent. This proximity ensures that the cylinders can properly reflect the curing conditions of the site, which is essential for obtaining accurate strength test results.

In contrast, storing cylinders in a controlled laboratory environment might not replicate the field conditions where the concrete is placed. Similarly, while a shaded and ventilated area might be suitable for some curing processes, it doesn't provide the same environmental context as the actual site. Placing them in a secure location away from the construction site could lead to discrepancies in the way they cure, potentially affecting the reliability of the testing outcomes.