Additives that improve the chemical characteristics of concrete mortar are called plasticizers. Moreover, they can be added not only to the finished solution, but even at the stage of cement grinding.
Do not assume that the plasticizer for
cement mortar exists in only one version. The fact is that in the world there are a huge number of concrete grades, each of which requires improvement and correction of certain properties. However, they have some common features, which include a list of standardly improved features. Let's point them out:
- good plasticizer for mortar will significantly reduce the consumption of building material;
- the adhesive properties of concrete are improved, while the ratio of cement to water remains the same;
- water in such a solution freezes at lower temperatures, and the strength of "winter" concrete increases, in addition, the cost of heating the solution or the use of other chemicals is sharply reduced;
- water resistance and gas tightness of finished products are greatly improved.
Classification of Additives
To better understand their properties, you need to know at least approximately a fairly simple classification by which you can choose the plasticizer you need for the solution. First, let's talk about their separation, depending on the principle of action:
- concrete hardening catalysts or inhibitors;
- modifiers that give special properties to the finished concrete (resistance to erosion, high temperatures, salt, etc.).
If we talk about the force of action, then the plasticizer for masonry mortar can be strong, medium or weak. There are mono-, bi- and polyvalent mixtures, fully synthetic and mineral additives.
The quality and effectiveness of plasticizers
The technical characteristics of the finished product are affected not only by the type and properties of the plasticizing additive, but also by the quality of the cement itself, which was used when mixing the solution. The products of the company Rhein-Chemotechnik GmbH (Germany) are very popular among professional builders.
Such a German plasticizer for mortar is good for its versatility. First of all, to obtain solutions of any category you will need a minimum amount of modifier. In addition, using various combinations of just a few types of additives, you can choose the best combination for almost any kind of concrete. Ease of use is also due to the availability of high-quality and detailed instructions.
Summing up, we can say that the plasticizer for mortar (the price of which depends on the manufacturer) can not only significantly reduce the cost of building materials, but also significantly increase the productivity of labor. In addition, if you have various kinds of modifiers, you can easily arrange the production of not only simple mortar, but even foam concrete of good quality. Given the cost of building materials in recent years, this is especially important not only for organizations, but also for individuals.