If you’re using recycled concrete in a construction project, you may consider getting additives as well. There are a number of different types, each helpful in its own way. Here are a few facts to help you decide which one is best for your project.

5 Concrete Additives and Why They’re Useful 

1. Accelerator 

Using calcium chloride or a similar chemical component, this type of additive helps recycled concrete set and strengthen faster. If you need to fix or lay out concrete during the winter, accelerators ensure that it sets before freezing. You just need to make sure that it’s correctly mixed and consolidated so that the steel reinforcement doesn’t cause corrosion. 

2. Retarder 

Retarders are meant for recycled concrete that you need to spread in warm weather. Since concrete naturally sets quicker when it’s hot outside, the retarder gives workers the time they need to shape the concrete properly and ensure that it won’t crack.

3. Waterproofer 

Although retarders can reduce water levels in concrete, there are additives designed for that purpose. There should be just enough water in the concrete for a good slump range without compromising the concrete’s stability. Waterproofer or water-reducing additives prevent concrete that’s weakened from too much water.  

4. Superplasticizer 

Superplasticizers keep water content to a minimum, even reducing it by up to 30%. These additives can make recycled concrete strong and consolidated when you can’t use internal vibration. Just ensure that the air content properly correlates to the remaining concrete, and it should still have enough slump to be workable.  

5. Corrosion Inhibitors 

Reinforced concrete commonly contains steel, so when it’s exposed to high volumes of chloride or water, it can rot or corrode. This damage can be prevented by mixing corrosion inhibitor additives with the concrete. Once it’s resistant to corrosion, most concrete can last for three or four decades before replacement is necessary. 

 
For a reliable aggregate distributor who can provide these additives to your recycled concrete, contact Manchester Aggregate Supply in Hartford County, CT. They also offer an array of other items for your concrete needs, including road sand, septic sand, traprock, and filler materials. In business for more than 40 years, they know what you need to make high-quality concrete that will be perfect for any construction project. Find out what additives and other features they provide by calling them at (860) 643-5578 or checking out their website.