Power Microsilica Gel Retarder

Power Microsilica Gel Retarder

PGS400-L

Cementitious Superplasticizer and Waterproofing Additive with Accelerating Properties

What is Power Microsilica Gel Retarder?

Power Microsilica Gel Retarder is a powerful and innovative additive, representing the most advanced and effective product among micro-silica-based super pozzolanic materials. It is designed and manufactured with primary bases of polycarboxylate ether and silica fume, supplemented with other components such as fillers, water-repelling agents, set-retarding agents, and polypropylene fibers. This product is more economical and offers a higher reduction in consumption compared to other micro-silica products. By incorporating this additive, the slump and rheological properties of the concrete in its plastic state improve. Ultimately, the concrete, after hardening, will exhibit enhanced mechanical and electrical properties. The higher fluidity of Power Microsilica Gel Retarder ensures better dispersion of silica fume, catalysts, and water-repelling materials within the concrete mix, resulting in a more homogenous and superior paste that is dense and impervious after hardening. Furthermore, due to the presence of set-retarding agents in the product’s structure, it provides control over the setting time, making it an ideal solution for large-scale pours and hot weather conditions. It also reduces the water-to-cement ratio by up to 25%.

In general, this product is a type of concrete densifier consisting of extremely fine and active silica particles. When mixed with concrete, it significantly enhances its strength and improves workability and fluidity.

Mechanism of Action of Power Microsilica Gel Retarder

The silica fume in the formulation of Power Microsilica Gel Retarder is a potent pozzolanic material that can be used as a substitute for cement, performing similarly to cement. Upon mixing with water and calcium hydroxide, it reacts, resulting in the formation of calcium silicate hydrate, which significantly contributes to the hardening and increased durability of the concrete. Additionally, the polycarboxylate ether in the formulation acts as a superplasticizer, forming a coating around the cement particles. The resulting steric hindrance prevents the cement particles from aggregating, and by creating similar charges on the polymer particles, repulsive forces are generated, leading to a more fluid concrete mix. The polypropylene fibers in this formulation also enhance the mechanical and abrasion-resistant properties of the concrete. Set-retarding agents allow for controlled setting time, making this product particularly suitable for hot weather and large volume pours.

Properties and Effects of Power Microsilica Gel Retarder

• Reduces early-age curing damage
• Decreases cement content by approximately 15–20%
• Delays the initial set of concrete
• Allows for controlled setting time based on climatic conditions
• Prevents aggregate separation and water bleeding
• Enhances compressive, tensile, and flexural strength
• Reduces water-to-cement ratio by up to 25%
• Increases durability against freeze-thaw cycles
• Achieves early-age compressive strength
• Reduces permeability to water, chloride ions, and sulfate attack
• Produces a smooth, homogenous paste
• Prevents cracking in the concrete
• Economical due to low dosage requirements
• Compensates for the lack of fine aggregates and fillers, improving the paste texture
• Reduces wear on concrete pumping equipment and facilitates easier pumping
• Compatible with various types of Portland cement
• Forms an attractive, exposed surface finish
• Increases workability without the need for additional superplasticizers

Applications of Power Microsilica Gel Retarder

• Production of pre-cast elements for faster utilization
• Suitable for pouring concrete in hot weather and tropical climates
• Ideal for creating concrete exposed to explosive forces
• Suitable for long-distance transportation of concrete
• Used for high-strength concrete where the reduction of structural element dimensions is a priority
• Suitable for concrete exposed to high dynamic loads
• Ideal for large-scale concrete pours
• Suitable for manufacturing durable, high-strength concrete
• Suitable for reinforced and non-reinforced concrete
• Ideal for producing water-resistant concrete for tunnels, water transmission channels, treatment plants, and reservoirs
• Suitable for creating impermeable and waterproof concrete
• Ideal for construction exposed to abrasion and wear
• Compatible with concrete exposed to freeze-thaw cycles
• Suitable for concrete exposed to chemical and corrosive attacks
• Used in the construction of docks, bridges, bridge decks, tanks, and dams
• Ideal for high-reinforcement density areas

Physical and Chemical Properties of Power Microsilica Gel Retarder

• State: Thick slurry
• Color: Dark gray
• Specific gravity: 1.30–1.35 gr/cm³
• Chloride ions: None
• pH: Approximately 8

Standards for Power Microsilica Gel Retarder

This product is manufactured in compliance with the following standards:

• BSEN 12390
• BS1881-122-8
• ASTM C-494 TYPE F

Consumption Rate of Power Microsilica Gel Retarder

The standard consumption of Power Microsilica Gel Retarder is typically 1–3% of the weight of cement used. For high compressive strength, it is recommended to reduce the mix water by 20–25% before adding the additive. This reduces the amount of cement required in the mix.

Note: In cases where there is a long delay between mixing and pouring, it is advised to add the additive in two stages: once in the batching stage and again 5 minutes before the concrete is poured into the mixer.

Usage Method of Power Microsilica Gel Retarder

Power Microsilica Gel Retarder can be added to concrete in the following ways:

• Mix the product with all or part of the mix water before adding it to the dry mix and thoroughly mix.
• Alternatively, it can be added after all other ingredients have been incorporated into the mix.

Note: For every cubic meter of concrete, a minimum of 1 minute of mixing is recommended.

Caution: Excessive use of this additive can cause an undesirably slow set time, which may compromise the final properties of the concrete.

Safety Precautions for Power Microsilica Gel Retarder

• This product is not classified as toxic or environmentally hazardous.
• Always use protective equipment, such as masks, gloves, and safety goggles, when working with any chemical.
• In case of ingestion, seek medical attention immediately.
• If it comes into contact with skin or eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of clean water.

Storage of Power Microsilica Gel Retarder

• Shelf life: One year in the original packaging
• Store away from freezing temperatures, heat, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
• Ideal storage temperature: Between +10°C and +30°C

Packaging of Power Microsilica Gel Retarder

• Packaging: 25 kg bucket