International Concrete Abstracts Portal

Title: Improving Concrete Performance with Shrinkage-Reducing Admixtures

Author(s): N. S. Berke, L Li, M. C. Hicks, and J. Bae

Publication: Special Publication

Volume: 217

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 37-50

Keywords: admixtures; air entrainment; chloride; corrosion; corrosion inhibitors; diffusion; durability; freezing and thawing; reinforced concrete; shrinkage; shrinkage reducing admixture; superplasticizers

Date: 9/1/2003

Abstract:
Concrete is one of the most durable construction materials. However, cracking adversely affects its durability, appearance, and functionality. A major cause of the cracking is related to shrinkage-induced strains creating stresses when concrete is restrained. Shrinkage reducing admixtures (SRA's) have been used for several years to reduce drying and autogenous shrinkage. However, their uses in temperate environments were limited due to difficulties in producing good quality air void systems needed for freezing and thawing resistance. In this paper we show that good air void systems and freezing and thawing performance are obtainable with a new formulation of a glycol ether SRA. This formulation is very compatible with polycarboxylate type superplasticizers and calcium nitrite corrosion inhibitor. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that in addition to improving shrinkage and cracking performance, permeability and corrosion performance are improved.