ADMIXTURES FOR ECONOMIC CONCRETE.

It is technically possible to design a concrete mix to be readily placed, easily compacted, have adequate strength and cure rate properties, good surface finish and serviceability without an admixture. However, when designing an economic concrete mix one may have to consider the thrifty use of cement, sand and aggregate, resulting in direct and immediate materials savings. Also it may be undesirable to make short-term economies but rather to design a conventional mix against a performance need. Such needs include: ease of placing and compacting as well as the strength, appearance and durability of concrete. This article discusses various considerations in the use of admixtures for economic concrete, including the preparation of compliant concrete, grinding aids, stages in concrete use, trends in the use of admixtures, and admixture options.