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<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nShe highlights the importance of reducing shrinkage in concrete to avoid cracking, using admixtures such as CHRYSO\u00ae Serenis. By reducing the volume changes that occur during the curing process, this admixture helps to prevent cracking. It works by decreasing capillary tension, protecting concrete against moisture transmission, chemical attack and corrosion of reinforcing steel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are also waterproofing agents, like pore blockers such as CHRYSO\u00ae Fuge B that further enhance concrete\u2019s resilience against chemical attack and reduce permeability, she adds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cAnother waterproofing agent is crystalline admixture such as CHRYSO\u00ae CWA 10,\u201d she says. \u201cThis reacts with moisture to form crystals deep within the pores and capillary tract of the concrete structure.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Admixtures such as plasticisers and super plasticisers are critical in ensuring workability of concrete, which is especially vital to heavily reinforced structures like reservoirs, adds Patrick Flannigan, Technical Manager of the Concrete Business Unit at CHRYSO Southern Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWater in the concrete mixture must be kept to a minimum to ensure strength and density, which could hamper its workability,\u201d says Flannigan. \u201cHowever, admixtures allow the concrete to continue to flow into the cavities between the steel reinforcing, which is often extensive to ensure strength in these large water-related structures. Secondary reinforcing can be achieved through the application of macro-fibres and micro-fibres, which can reduce the amount of steel while also further reducing the risk of cracking.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another aspect of water-retaining structures to consider is their weight, so the ground underneath them must be well drained if they are to remain stable. \u201cTo ensure water does not collect, a pervious base layer usually needs to be installed,\u201d he says. \u201cThis is constructed from no-fines concrete, which allows water to flow away without eroding the sub-base material.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n He notes that an admixture like CHRYSO\u00ae Easy Drain is ideal for no-fines concrete, as it coats the coarse aggregate to ensure a stronger bond between these particles and the cement-water mix.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Concrete performance and durability underpin the value to society of water-retaining structures such as water treatment plants and storage reservoirs \u2013 and admixtures make all the difference. Challenges, including cracking and permeability, can undermine the strength and longevity of these structures, according to Michelle Fick of CHRYSO Southern Africa\u2019s Concrete Aesthetics Business Unit. \u201cCracking of … Continue reading ADMIXTURES CRITICAL IN DURABILITY OF WATER-RETAINING STRUCTURES<\/span> <\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"