Superplasticizers: Reducing Water in Concrete

by V. M. Malhotra, Head; Construction Materials Section, CANMET, Dept. of Energy, Mines and Resources Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,


Serial Information: Civil Engineering—ASCE, 1984, Vol. 54, Issue 12, Pg. 56-59


Document Type: Feature article

Abstract:

Superplasticizers or high-range water reducers are new types of chemical admixtures which when incorporated into concrete can cause significant increases in its slump but without any loss in its mechanical properties. They originated in Japan and Germany and are being used increasingly in North America. Various types of superplasticizers available are listed with their advantages and limitations for use in concrete. A number of case histories in the use of superplasticizers in precast concrete industry, in high-rise concrete construction and slip forming are given. Research needs to resolve some of the problems associated with the use of superplasticizers in concrete are outlined. These include development of new types of superplasticizers in concrete containing low-heat cement and compatibility between superplasticisers and supplementary cementing materials such as fly ash and slag.

Subject Headings: Concrete | Water leakage and water loss | Precast concrete | Concrete admixtures | Chemical properties | Cement | Case studies

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