Instructions for the use of plasticizer for concrete solution

To increase the flowability and elasticity of concrete, plasticizers are added to it. Most recently they were used only in multi-storey construction, but today they are increasingly used in the construction of individual housing.

The reason lies in:

• reducing the amount of water necessary for the preparation of the solution, due to which it is obtained more dense and frost-resistant,
• reducing the number of voids in the solidification solution,
• saving cement to 15%,
• facilitating the labor of builders with mixing and vibrating concrete,
• the possibility to use a concrete pump for supplying a solution,
• , increasing plasticity and fluidity of the solution several times, easier to fill it into the formwork.

When plasticizers are used, the risk of solution defects arising from stale and low-quality cement, dirty gravel and sand is reduced.

Instructions for use

Plasticizers are available in the form of dry powdered mixtures or solutions. Depending on the particular brand, they can be added at the initial stage of the preparation of concrete or in the finished solution. In the domestic construction market, the most common plasticizer brand s-3.It is also available as a dry mix or as an aqueous solution.

Plasticiser c-3 is usually added at a rate of 500-700 g per 100 kg of cement, or 0.5-0.7%.Let us assume a range of 0.3-1.5% of the plasticizer based on the weight of the cement. It is compatible with additives that accelerate solidification, which have antifreezing and reinforcing effect.

1. In the case of a dry mix, an aqueous solution of the required concentration is first prepared based on the manufacturer's recommendations. For this purpose, clean containers are used, the air temperature at the time of preparation should be above zero.
2. In order to obtain a plasticizer solution with a concentration of 35% from a mixture with a moisture content of 8%( the value is taken from the certificate), 38 kg of plasticizer in powder and 62 liters of water are combined. Stirred to obtain an absolutely homogeneous mass.
3. For 100 kg of dry cement, take 1.43 kg of the prepared plasticizer solution. Introduce it together with the first portions of water. Mixing components is better in a concrete mixer, so they will be distributed more evenly.
4. The prepared plasticizer solution can be stored for 6 months in tightly closed containers. Before further use, it must be thoroughly mixed.

In Europe and the USA more than 90% of concrete is manufactured with the addition of plasticizers, and disputes about their safety and necessity do not arise. Proper use of plasticizer allows to significantly improve the quality of concrete and housing in general.