Concrete Admixtures: Enhancing Modern Construction
Concrete admixtures, while not essential to the mix, have become increasingly significant in modern construction. The use of admixtures in concrete is rapidly growing, making them invaluable in various construction projects. In India, concrete admixtures are particularly prevalent, reflecting their importance in achieving desired concrete properties.
Benefits of Admixtures:
Economic Efficiency:
Admixtures reduce the required quantity of cement, making concrete more economical.
Enhanced Workability:
They improve the workability of concrete, facilitating easier placement and finishing.
Early Strength:
Admixtures impart early strength to concrete, allowing for faster construction schedules.
Thermal Control:
They reduce the early heat of hydration, mitigating thermal cracking problems in concrete. Excessive heat of hydration can cause cracks in fresh concrete.
Freeze-Thaw Resistance:
Admixtures enhance concrete's resistance to freeze-thaw cycles, improving durability in harsh climates.
Sustainability:
By incorporating waste products, admixtures maximize sustainability in construction.
Setting Time Regulation:
Certain admixtures can accelerate the setting time, while others can decelerate it, providing flexibility in construction processes.
Anti-Bacterial Properties:
Some admixtures act as anti-bacterial agents, enhancing the longevity of concrete structures.
Strength Development:
While some admixtures may decrease initial strength, they can increase the hardened concrete strength beyond that of normal concrete.
In summary, concrete admixtures are pivotal in modern construction, offering a range of benefits from economic efficiency to improved durability and sustainability. Their ability to tailor concrete properties makes them indispensable in achieving the desired performance in various construction projects.
Various range of Concrete plasticizer/Admixture
•Improves the workability of concrete
•Improves both early and ultimate strength without increasing cement content and without reducing workability
•Saves cement without reducing strength and workability
•Improves surface finish, allows producing denser concrete
Reduces the permeability of concrete
Uses
•For pumped concrete as it improves the lubricating properties
•Roof slabs for both residential as well as industrial buildings
•Medium to low grade concrete to improve the cohesiveness
Method of Application
•It should be added with mixing water as per the recommended Dosage
Dosage/Coverage
Various according to product.
Packing
20 Ltr. 50 Ltr, & 220 Ltr.
Shelf Life 12 months
Various range of Concrete plasticizer/Admixture
•Improves the workability of concrete
•Improves both early and ultimate strength without increasing cement content and without reducing workability
•Saves cement without reducing strength and workability
•Improves surface finish, allows producing denser concrete
Reduces the permeability of concrete
Uses
•For pumped concrete as it improves the lubricating properties
•Roof slabs for both residential as well as industrial buildings
•Medium to low grade concrete to improve the cohesiveness
Method of Application
•It should be added with mixing water as per the recommended Dosage
Dosage/Coverage
Various according to product.
Packing
20 Ltr. 50 Ltr, & 220 Ltr.
Shelf Life 12 months
Various range of Concrete plasticizer/Admixture
•Improves the workability of concrete
•Improves both early and ultimate strength without increasing cement content and without reducing workability
•Saves cement without reducing strength and workability
•Improves surface finish, allows producing denser concrete
Reduces the permeability of concrete
Uses
•For pumped concrete as it improves the lubricating properties
•Roof slabs for both residential as well as industrial buildings
•Medium to low grade concrete to improve the cohesiveness
Method of Application
•It should be added with mixing water as per the recommended Dosage
Dosage/Coverage
Various according to product.
Packing
20 Ltr. 50 Ltr, & 220 Ltr.
Shelf Life 12 months
AquaShield CrystalGuard is an advanced cementitious composite coating system that combines cement with specially engineered additives. These additives penetrate deep into concrete structures, sealing pores and micro-fine cracks through crystalline growth. This growth is highly resistant to extreme water pressures from both sides of the concrete and withstands exposure to a wide range of aggressive chemicals. The catalytic nature of the process allows the crystalline structure to reactivate years after the initial application, effectively sealing new defects as they emerge.
APPLICATIONS
AquaShield CrystalGuard is ideal for:
Surface treatment, protection, and waterproofing of concrete and masonry.
Waterproofing basements, bathrooms, terraces, roofs, swimming pools, and water towers.
General concrete repairs and protection against corrosion and salt attack.
FEATURES
Creates a durable, hard-wearing surface with superior waterproofing capabilities.
Permits vapor release, preventing peeling and blistering.
Can be uniformly applied to both horizontal and vertical surfaces.
Forms a strong bond with the substrate.
Prevents salt penetration into concrete.
Resistant to UV light and a broad range of chemicals, from mild acids to strong alkalies.
Highly durable under continuous wet conditions.
Non-flammable and non-toxic, even under fire exposure.
Will not deteriorate or corrode.
Properties improve over time.
Safe for application by workers.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Appearance: Grey powder
Mixing Ratio: 1 part clean water to 2-2.5 parts powder by volume
Water Permeability: Zero at 20 meters water head pressure
Shelf Life: 12 months when kept in sealed conditions
APPLICATION GUIDELINES
Surface Preparation:
Before applying AquaShield CrystalGuard, ensure the surface is thoroughly cleaned of dust, debris, loose materials, or any contaminants that might hinder bonding. Cleaning methods include scarifying, grinding, water blasting, sandblasting, acid washing, or other suitable techniques.
Waterproofing by Crystallization:
Smooth out new flat surfaces to facilitate application and prevent sharp projections.
Pre-wet all concrete surfaces thoroughly but ensure no standing water remains.
Fill and level any depressions with a 1:3 cement-sand mortar mix.
Roughen smooth concrete surfaces by sandblasting if necessary.
Application:
Mix AquaShield CrystalGuard with clean water according to the recommended ratio to form a smooth slurry. Eliminate any lumps in the mixture. Apply the slurry using a brush to the prepared surfaces, recommending two or more coats. Allow the first coat to air dry for 5-6 hours before applying additional coats.
Curing:
Post-application, allow the final coat to air dry for 8-12 hours without water curing. In conditions of high temperature, low humidity, and high wind, cover with a polythene sheet to prevent rapid drying. After 24 hours, begin moist curing by spraying or sprinkling potable water for the next 3-4 days.
PRECAUTIONS
Apply AquaShield CrystalGuard at temperatures between 5°C and 40°C.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry location, away from direct sunlight.
PACKAGING
Available in 5 kg and 225 kg HDPE bags.