Concrete Superplasticizer

(Concrete Superplasticizer)

A concrete superplasticizer is a specialized admixture that lowers the water-cement ratio and improves workability of the concrete. It also reduces the permeability of the concrete and increases its durability.

In order to increase the workability of concrete, superplasticizers are injected into the mix during the mixing process or incorporated into the dry ingredients after casting. The amount of plasticizer needed to achieve the desired effect varies depending on the type, dosage and time of addition.

Superplasticizers reduce the water requirement in concrete by 15 to 30 percent. The effectiveness of the admixture depends on its type, dosage, initial slump and time of addition.

Several types of superplasticizers are available in the market such as sulfonated naphthalene formaldehyde (SNF), sulfonated melamine formaldehyde (SMF), modified lignosulfonates (MLS) and polycarboxylate derivatives. The superplasticizers are categorized into powder and liquid.

They increase the slump of concrete by up to six inches and reduce the water requirements by 20 percent. The strength of the concrete reaches up to 22,000 psi with superplasticizers.

These admixtures are used in the production of ready-mixed concrete. The demand for ready-mix concrete is increasing in the global market due to its ease of transportation and wide range of applications across residential, commercial and industrial constructions.

The major drivers for the growth of concrete superplasticizers are high consumption of concrete and growing urbanization trend in Asia-Pacific region. The market is projected to register a significant CAGR in the forecast period.

(Concrete Superplasticizer)