Concrete Admixtures - Types And Functions, Explained
Concrete admixtures are a group of chemicals added to concrete during production. They alter or improve some aspects of the concrete and its performance. Concrete is a composite material consisting of aggregates (usually gravel or sand), water, and cement. Admixtures can be added before or during mixing, but most often, they are mixed with water at a ratio between 1% and 5% during the batching process. Concrete admixture manufacturers states that the most common types of admixtures are air-entraining, water-reducing, and superplasticizers. What Are Concrete Admixtures? Concrete admixtures are chemical additives added to concrete before it is poured. They’re used to improve various properties, including strength and workability. Admixtures come in two basic types: water-reducing agents and air-entraining agents. Water-reducing agents lower the amount of water needed for a mix; this helps control shrinkage during the curing process by keeping the concrete from drying out too...