What does the term 'curing' refer to in the context of fireproofing materials?

Curing in the context of fireproofing materials specifically refers to the drying process that allows the material to achieve its intended properties, such as strength and thermal resistance. During curing, moisture content within the fireproofing material evaporates, leading to the development of its final hardness and performance characteristics. This process is critical because it ensures that the fireproofing will adhere properly to the substrate and provide effective fire resistance when fully set.

While the initial application involves the placement of the fireproofing material, and bonding pertains to how well the material attaches to the surface, neither of these processes defines curing itself. The mixing phase involves preparing the material by combining components, which is also distinct from what occurs during curing. Therefore, understanding that curing primarily denotes the drying and hardening phase helps clarify the essential role it plays in the effectiveness of fireproofing applications.