Plasticizer for mortar of concrete: what is it and why is it needed?

Additives that improve the characteristics of a concrete solution obtained by chemical means are called plasticizers. And they can be added not only to the finished solution, but even at the stage of grinding the cement.

Do not assume that the plasticizer for a cement solution exists only in one version. The matter is that in the world there is a huge quantity of grades of concrete, each of which requires improvement and correction of certain properties. However, they have some common features, which include a list of standardly improved characteristics. Let's specify them:

• Good plasticizer for solution Will significantly reduce the consumption of building material;
• The adhesive properties of concrete are improved, and the cement-water ratio 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 using other chemical reagents is sharply reduced;
• Water resistance and gas tightness of finished products are greatly improved.

Classification of additives

In order to better understand their properties, one must at least approximately know about 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:

• Catalysts or inhibitors of solidification of concrete;
• Modifiers, giving special properties to ready-made concrete (resistance to erosion, high temperatures, salt, etc.).

If we talk about the strength of the action, the plasticizer for the masonry solution can be strong, medium or weak. There are mono-, bi-and polyvalent mixtures, completely 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 kneading the solution. The products of 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 need a minimum amount of modifier. In addition, using different combinations of just a few types of additives, it is possible to select the optimal combination for almost any concrete grades. The ease of use is also due to the availability of quality and detailed instructions.

Summing up, we can say that the plasticizer for a solution (the price of which depends on the manufacturer) allows not only to significantly reduce costs for building materials, but also significantly increase the productivity of labor. In addition, in the presence of various kinds of modifiers, you easily adjust the production of not only a simple mortar, but even a foam concrete of good quality. Considering the cost of building materials in recent years, this is especially important not only for organizations, but also for individuals.