A better mix from ASE

Nanotechnology has been used to develop a new generation of admixtures for use in ready-mix concrete. These provide contractors with higher quality concrete with extended workability.
Admixture Systems Europe (ASE), a division of Degussa Construction Chemicals, has used nanotechnology to develop Glenium Sky, a family of admixtures that produce concrete with a high water reduction while exhibiting extended slump retention.
Nanotechnology is the science that studies phenomena at nanometer scale. It makes it possible to start from the molecular interactions between polymers and cement to build up the desired performances in concrete.
Development and technology vice president Mario Corradi said: "For the first time, the ready-mix producer can solve the need of the concrete industry to manage the two opposing requirements it has been faced with: to produce a concrete with a low water/cement ratio that maintains its workability retention over a prolonged time.
"We have responded to the needs of the ready-mix producers that are concerned about delivering a high-quality concrete to site that retains its properties until it is placed.
"Until now, such requirements were always a compromise between water reduction and working time," said Corradi.
The benefits for the contractor include: easier placing and faster strength development, thereby ensuring labour savings; improved concrete surfaces due to less sticky behaviour; a guarantee to place the same concrete as specified and ordered from ready-mix plant; and fewer claims because of a more versatile and forgiving concrete mix.
Glenium Sky will be available in spring 2004.