Microsilica Gel

Microsilica Gel

Fast Harden
MGL420

Additive for Workability, Water Resistance, and Accelerated Setting

What is Fast Harden Microsilica Gel?
Fast Harden Microsilica Gel is an effective product based on carboxylate-based superplasticizers, silica fume, fillers, polypropylene fibers, and fast-setting additives for concrete. When added to the mix design, it enhances the rheological properties of concrete in its fresh state and improves the properties of the hardened concrete. This material increases the workability of concrete in its fresh state and enhances strength and durability in the hardened concrete by reducing water absorption and significantly decreasing permeability. Fast Harden Microsilica Gel accelerates the setting time of concrete and is suitable for use in cold weather conditions. By incorporating Fast Harden Microsilica Gel into the mix, silica fume, superplasticizer, and fibers are introduced into the concrete structure, leading to increased density, workability, reduced water content, and ultimately improving many mechanical properties of the concrete. Additionally, this product reduces the water-to-cement ratio by about 10 to 15 percent.

In general, this product is a useful material used in concrete mixes. When added to the mix design, it improves the rheological properties of concrete in its fresh state and enhances the properties of hardened concrete. It is also used in structures exposed to continuous freeze-thaw cycles, such as bridges, parking lots, power plants, and tunnels.

How Does Fast Harden Microsilica Gel Work?

Silica fume, a key ingredient in the formulation of Fast Harden Microsilica Gel, is a powerful pozzolanic material that can effectively replace cement and provides performance similar to that of cement. When mixed with water and calcium hydroxide, it reacts to form calcium silicate hydrate, which contributes to the hardening of concrete and increases its strength. Additionally, the polycarboxylate ether in the formulation of the gel acts as a superplasticizer by forming a coating on the cement particles and preventing them from clumping together. This polymer layer creates repulsive forces between the particles, thus making the concrete more workable. The polypropylene fibers in the gel also improve the mechanical and wear resistance properties of the concrete. Furthermore, the accelerators in the formulation speed up the hydration process, promoting rapid setting of the mix.

Properties and Effects of Fast Harden Microsilica Gel

• Compatible with all types of Portland cement
• Increased durability and longevity of concrete
• Reduction in cement consumption
• Enhanced compressive and abrasion resistance
• Resistance to chloride ion and other harmful chemical ion penetration
• Improved workability and slump of the concrete
• Extended time for workability and ease of handling
• Reduction in the water-to-cement ratio by about 10 to 15 percent
• Prevention of cracks caused by thermal stresses in concrete
• Improved pumpability and ease of pumping the concrete
• Achieves early compressive strength and faster setting times
• Prevents corrosion of rebar and steel sheets
• Increases the compressive durability of concrete by 10 to 40 percent
• Reduces water absorption and permeability

Applications of Fast Harden Microsilica Gel

• Suitable for use in cold climates and low-temperature environments
• Ideal for creating high-strength, durable concrete
• Used in structures exposed to continuous freeze-thaw cycles
• Suitable for constructing water-related structures such as canals and dams
• Used in the construction of all types of concrete structures, including bridges, parking lots, power plants, and tunnels
• Enables the creation of impermeable and waterproof concrete
• Suitable for areas subjected to chemical ion attacks

Physical and Chemical Properties Table

• State: Thick slurry
• Color: Dark gray
• Specific gravity: 1.30 to 1.35 g/cm³
• Chloride ion: None
• pH: Around 8

Fast Harden Microsilica Gel is produced according to the following international standards

• BS EN12390
• BS1881-122
• 8
• ASTM C494 TYPE F

Usage Rate of Fast Harden Microsilica Gel

The consumption rate of Fast Harden Microsilica Gel is typically 5 to 7 percent of the cement weight, but this can vary depending on environmental conditions and the type of materials used. To achieve high compressive strength and durable concrete, it is recommended to reduce the water in the mix by 10 to 15 percent before adding the gel.

How to Use Fast Harden Microsilica Gel

There are two ways to add Fast Harden Microsilica Gel to the concrete mix:

1. Mix it with all or part of the water in the concrete mix and then add it to the dry materials, ensuring thorough mixing.
2. Alternatively, you can add the gel after all the other ingredients have been mixed.

Note: It is important to mix for at least 1 minute per cubic meter of concrete.

Note: Excessive use of Fast Harden Microsilica Gel can accelerate the setting time beyond normal limits, disrupting the hydration process and weakening the properties of the hardened concrete.

Safety of Fast Harden Microsilica Gel

• In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical attention immediately.
• When working with any chemical, wear a mask, gloves, and safety goggles.
• In case of accidental contact with skin or eyes, rinse thoroughly with clean water.
• Fast Harden Microsilica Gel is not classified as toxic or environmentally hazardous.

Storage of Fast Harden Microsilica Gel

• Shelf life: 1 year in original packaging
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, freezing temperatures, and extreme heat.
• Ideal storage temperature: +10°C to +30°C

Packaging of Fast Harden Microsilica Gel

• 25 kg bucket