Overview of Concrete Admixture

Concrete admixtures are additives included in the concrete mix before or during mixing to modify certain properties of the concrete, either in its freshly mixed or hardened state. These additives can improve workability, strength, setting time, and durability of concrete, making them indispensable in modern construction practices.

Features of Concrete Admixture

Admixtures can offer a range of features depending on the type and purpose:

1. Workability Enhancers: Improve the flow and handling of the concrete mix, reducing the effort needed for placing and finishing.
2. Accelerators: Speed up the setting and strengthening process of concrete, allowing quicker form removal and faster project progress.
3. Retarders: Slow down the hydration process, giving more time to transport and place the concrete, especially useful in hot weather or large pours.
4. Water Reducers (Plasticizers): Reduce the amount of water required to achieve a given slump, leading to higher strength and better durability.
5. Superplasticizers: A more potent version of water reducers, allowing for significant water reduction without loss of workability.
6. Air-Entraining Agents: Introduce tiny air bubbles into the concrete to enhance freeze-thaw resistance and improve workability.
7. Corrosion Inhibitors: Protect embedded metals such as reinforcement bars from corrosion, extending the lifespan of the concrete structure.
8. Coloring Agents: Used to change the color of the concrete, popular in architectural applications.
9. Waterproofing Admixtures: Enhance the impermeability of concrete, making it more resistant to water penetration and leakage.
10. Fiber Reinforcements: Incorporate fibers into the mix to increase tensile strength and reduce cracking.

Applications of Concrete Admixture

Admixtures are widely used across various construction sectors:

• Residential Construction: To ensure durability and longevity of home foundations, walls, and floors.
• Commercial and Industrial Projects: For high-performance concrete in buildings, bridges, and roadways.
• Infrastructure Development: In the construction of dams, tunnels, and other large-scale projects requiring specific concrete properties.
• Historic Restoration: To match the original properties of historic concrete and masonry while improving durability.
• Environmental Projects: In green building practices, where sustainability and minimal environmental impact are priorities.

Company Profile

Cabr-Concrete is the global leader in Low-Density Cellular Concrete (LDCC), Celluar Light Concrete (CLC), and advanced engineered foam solutions. Known globally for its commitment to research, innovation, and applied expertise, we have been providing engineered foam solutions since the early 2012's.

We can supply high-quality concrete admixture. We have a professional technical department and quality supervision department, a well-equipped laboratory, and equipped with advanced testing equipment and after-sales customer service center.Send us an email or click on the needed products to send an inquiry.

If you want to know more about Concrete Admixture, please feel free and contact us: sales@cabr-concrete.com

Package of Concrete Admixture

25Kg woven outer bag lined with plastic bag, stored at room temperature away from light, moisture and rain.

Storage of Concrete Admixture

Paper plastic composite packaging lined with plastic bags

FAQs of Concrete Admixture

Q: What is the difference between a plasticizer and a superplasticizer?

A: Plasticizers reduce the amount of water needed for a given slump, whereas superplasticizers provide greater water reduction and higher workability at lower dosages.

Q: Can admixtures be used together?

A: Yes, combinations of admixtures are common and can be used to achieve multiple effects, but compatibility should be checked to avoid adverse reactions.

Q: How do admixtures affect the cost of concrete?

A: While admixtures may add to the initial cost of concrete, they often result in cost savings through improved workability, faster curing times, and enhanced durability, which reduces maintenance costs over time.

Q: Are admixtures safe to use?

A: Most admixtures are designed to be safe, but proper handling procedures should be followed, and safety data sheets should be consulted for any health and safety concerns.