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What are Admixtures?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

Admixtures are substances that are added to concrete in order to enhance the quality of the concrete in some manner. Often, the role of admixtures is to expedite the curing process for the concrete, making it possible for the mixture to set and dry quickly. At other times, an admixture may be used to help slow down the setting and drying process, making it possible to work with the concrete for longer periods of time. Generally, admixtures are divided into two specific categories: mineral and chemical.

It is important to recognize that admixtures are different from aggregates. While it is true that aggregates also impact the final quality of the concrete, they are more concerned with texture and color. By contrast, admixtures are more focused on enhancing the workability of the concrete in some manner, as well as making it possible for the concrete to set and dry under various types of temperature conditions.

Admixtures can help keep concrete from cracking.
Admixtures can help keep concrete from cracking.

Most commercially produced concrete mixes sold today include at least one admixture as one of the main ingredients. In the United States, one of the most popular choices for admixtures is the inclusion of fly ash. Classified as a mineral admixture, fly ash helps to maintain the workability of the concrete, as well as increase the ability of the concrete to resist cracking over time due to expansion and contraction in different weather conditions. The ash is also great filler that makes it possible employ less concrete without negatively affecting the quality of the finished product.

Admixtures are often combined with concrete for reasons such as increasing strength or quickening curing time.
Admixtures are often combined with concrete for reasons such as increasing strength or quickening curing time.

Chemical admixtures are often added to concrete as a way to artificially control the rate or speed of curing. By having some degree of control over how long it will take the concrete to set once it is in place, it is possible to work with the concrete for longer periods of time in order to add decorative elements. At the same time, some chemical admixtures can accelerate the amount of time needed for the concrete to dry; this application is desirable when there is a need to create a basic structure or component with concrete and quickly move on to another task.

Chemical admixtures may be added to concrete to control the cure rate.
Chemical admixtures may be added to concrete to control the cure rate.

Overall, admixtures help to broaden the use of concrete for many different applications. Along with aggregates, admixtures can make a big difference in the look, feel and quality of the final product. By choosing the correct admixtures for the place and setting, it is possible to produce concrete products that hold up well and provide service for many years.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including AboutMechanics, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

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Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including AboutMechanics, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

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    • Admixtures can help keep concrete from cracking.
      Admixtures can help keep concrete from cracking.
    • Admixtures are often combined with concrete for reasons such as increasing strength or quickening curing time.
      By: Kadmy
      Admixtures are often combined with concrete for reasons such as increasing strength or quickening curing time.
    • Chemical admixtures may be added to concrete to control the cure rate.
      By: podsolnykh
      Chemical admixtures may be added to concrete to control the cure rate.