Functions and Utility of Silica Based Concrete Additives
Concrete additives harness various properties of concrete like corrosion resistance, flow, hardening etc. They are a set of attributes outlining comprehensive strength along with quality in various construction related scenarios. Silica based concrete additives are available in physical and chemical form. Though the natural-based ones have a unique ability in modifying the properties of concrete. They have a special ability to form bonds with cement materials paving way for durable and stronger concrete.
An insight into silica concrete additives
In the construction industry additives are used because of the unique feature to impart strength and durability to concrete. The additives are put to use in varying proportions to control the hardening or setting of concrete that is needed for specific construction projects. But it does find its use in big projects like building dams, or buildings etc.
The silica based concrete additives have a major role to play. From the other chemicals, the properties of silica are fairly different as because of their unique properties they can modify the properties of concrete. The additives are known to enhance attributes of concrete.
Silica based concrete additives and the properties it can modify
Efficient and successful use of silica concrete additives forms fortified concrete with resistance to heat and enhanced durability. Normally the properties of concrete are modified through pozzolanic activity. The examples of pozzolans are ash, fly, silica fume. When you blend it with concrete with varying proportions it can give rise to a host of modifications.
For modified properties and better working as per your needs, there might be a need to use chemical additives in concrete. They are going to work differently when you compare it to silica based additives. But you need to ensure that the total concentration of additive does not exceed 50 % of the mixture.