Types of Concrete Admixtures: Advantages, Applications, Classification, Usage, Standards & Manufacturer Introduction
Types and Classification of Concrete Admixtures
Concrete admixtures are materials added to concrete mixes to enhance specific properties in fresh and hardened state. According to international standards (like ASTM C494, EN 934), admixtures are grouped as follows:
Water-Reducing Admixtures (Plasticizers/Superplasticizers)
Function: Reduce water content for a given workability or increase workability at the same water-cement ratio.
Types: Normal, mid-range, high-range superplasticizers.
Retarding Admixtures
Function: Delay the setting time of concrete; ideal for hot weather concreting.
Accelerating Admixtures
Function: Speed up the setting and early strength gain; useful in cold climates or urgent repairs.
Air-Entraining Admixtures
Function: Introduce microscopic air bubbles for improved durability, workability, and freeze-thaw resistance.
Waterproofing Admixtures
Function: Reduce permeability and enhance water resistance.
Corrosion Inhibitors
Function: Protect steel reinforcement against corrosion, especially in aggressive environments.
Shrinkage-Reducing Admixtures
Function: Minimize drying shrinkage and cracking.
Anti-Freeze & Set-Control Admixtures
Function: Allow concreting at low temperatures.
Grouting and Expansive Admixtures
Function: Compensate for shrinkage, reduce voids in grout applications.
Colouring Admixtures
Function: Add color for architectural or aesthetic concrete.
Advantages of Concrete Admixtures
Enhance workability and placement
Reduce or control setting and hardening times
Increase strength and durability properties
Improve resistance to freeze-thaw, sulfate, and chemical attack
Reduce shrinkage and cracking
Lower permeability, enhance waterproofing
Enable concreting in adverse weather conditions (hot or cold)
Reduce segregation and bleeding
Applications
Mass concrete works (dams, bridges, tanks)
Ready-mix and precast industries
High-performance and self-compacting concrete (SCC)
Repair and rehabilitation works
Concreting in extreme weather
Architectural and decorative concrete
Marine and aggressive chemical environments
Usage Method
Admixtures may be supplied as liquids or powders.
They are usually added during batching, either directly into the mixer or with mixing water.
Dosage must follow manufacturer recommendations and be adjusted based on concrete trials.
Uniform dispersion is ensured through proper mixing.
Overdosing or incompatible admixtures may adversely affect concrete quality; site trials and laboratory verification are recommended.
Relevant Standards
ASTM C494: Chemical Admixtures for Concrete
EN 934-2: Admixtures for Concrete, Mortar, and Grout
BS 5075: Concrete Admixtures
IS 9103: Specification for Concrete Admixtures
Each product should comply with local and international standards relevant to its type and application.
Clinic Beton Iran Group – Leading Concrete Admixture Manufacturer
Clinic Beton Iran Group (including Rayeh Sabz Beton and Zharf Taban Mehr Companies) with the international brand RBS-CONTECH, is Iran’s prominent manufacturer and supplier of a full range of concrete admixtures and construction chemicals. The company delivers high-quality, standard-compliant admixtures for all construction sectors, backed by expert technical support and research.
Contact Information:
Website: https://www.clinicbeton.com
RBS-CONTECH: https://www.rbs-contech.com
Email: clinicbeton.com(AT)gmail.com
Phone: +98 21 88070173, +98 21 88584906
Mobile: +98 910 2333497, +98 912 0916271, +98 912 0916272
For technical advice, custom admixture solutions, and reliable supply, Clinic Beton Iran provides comprehensive support for your concrete technology needs.