Power Carbuxylate Plasticizer

Power Carbuxylate Plasticizer (Fast Harden) – PC12-AF

Powerful Superplasticizer

Severe Water Reducer with Setting Acceleration Property

What is a Fast-Hardened Carboxylate Superplasticizer?

The fast-hardened carboxylate-based superplasticizer is based on polycarboxylate ether, known for its strong water-reducing ability and significantly improving concrete workability. It contains long side chains that ensure uniform dispersion of cement particles within the concrete mix. Additionally, due to its fast-setting properties, this superplasticizer is ideal for producing TBM segments, high-strength concretes, and concrete in cold climates. The presence of fast-setting agents helps achieve early compressive strength, and the faster initial setting allows for formwork removal within 12 to 18 hours after pouring.

This additive is a specialized product used to enhance concrete performance, reducing the water-cement ratio while improving the overall workability and strength of the mixture. It is designed to accelerate the setting time, thus enabling quicker curing and faster construction processes.

Mechanism of Action

The molecules in the superplasticizer are composed of a main branch and several side chains. When added to concrete or mortar, these molecules create a charged layer around cement particles, causing them to repel each other, thus increasing the fluidity of the mix. The side chains also keep the particles from clumping together, while the main branches, due to their hydrophobic nature, help keep larger molecules separated by the cement particles, which in turn increases the mixture’s fluidity. This dispersion action allows the concrete mix to remain workable for a longer period before it begins to set.

The product’s early setting ability is derived from the incorporation of setting accelerators, which ensure rapid hydration and early compressive strength gains, particularly beneficial for cold weather applications.

How to Ensure Quality of Fast-Hardened Carboxylate Superplasticizer

The color and consistency of the product can be a visible indication of quality. Polycarboxylate ether typically appears clear or amber, with a consistency similar to industrial oils. If the superplasticizer appears dark brown, there could be the use of substandard materials in its production. Its density should align with standard specifications and match the recommended dosage by the manufacturer. Lower-quality products may contain more additives, leading to excessive water in the mix, which can reduce concrete strength.

Properties and Effects

• Reduced Shrinkage and Creep: Reduces shrinkage and long-term creep in the concrete.
• Prevents Air Entrainment: Ensures minimal air pockets in the concrete.
• Excellent Workability: No need for vibration due to superior fluidity.
• Improved Durability: Enhances resistance against weather and environmental conditions.
• Early Formwork Removal: Formwork can be removed within 12-18 hours due to accelerated setting.
• Increased Early Strength: Early compressive strength gain.
• Compatibility: Works with various types of Portland and SRC cements.
• Enhanced Flexural Strength: Improves bending strength and elasticity modulus.
• Improved Bond Strength: Increases adhesion between concrete and steel reinforcements.

Applications

• High-Performance Concrete: Ideal for high-strength applications.
• Cold-Climate Concrete: Suitable for construction in cold weather.
• Precast Concrete: Compatible for precast elements production.
• Specialized Formwork: Works well with tunnel and slip-form formwork.
• Powerful and High-Strength Concrete: Produces high-resistance concrete for challenging applications.
• Injection Mortars: Suitable for injection mortars and self-compacting concretes.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Property	Specification
State	Liquid
Color	Amber
Specific Gravity	1.13 gr/cm³
Standard	ASTM C494, ASTM C1017
Chloride Ion Content	None
pH	Around 7

Standards Compliance

• ASTM C494
• ASTM C1017

Consumption Rate

The recommended consumption rate varies based on factors such as environmental temperature, aggregate type, and cement content. Typically, it ranges from 0.2% to 0.8% by weight of the cement. The faster the setting is required, the more of this product will be used.

Price Considerations

When purchasing, quality and consistency should be prioritized over cost. Low-cost superplasticizers might have substandard raw materials, requiring higher dosages and introducing excessive water content, which can negatively affect concrete performance. It is recommended to buy from reputable suppliers to ensure quality and control over the setting time.

Usage Instructions

The superplasticizer should be diluted with twice its volume of water and then added gradually to the mixing concrete. After thorough mixing, the concrete should be poured. A minimum of one minute of mixing per cubic meter of concrete is advised.

Safety Precautions

• Non-toxic and non-flammable: No significant health risks but avoid direct eye contact. In case of contact, rinse thoroughly with water.
• Skin Sensitivity: Consult a doctor if irritation occurs.
• Protective Equipment: Wear goggles, gloves, and a mask during use.

Storage Guidelines

• Shelf Life: 1 year in original packaging.
• Storage Conditions: Keep away from freezing temperatures, extreme heat, and direct sunlight.
• Optimal Temperature: 10°C to 30°C.

Packaging Options

• 20-liter drum
• 220-liter barrel
• 1000-liter tank