Influence of plasticizing admixtures on the workability, compressive strength, and capillary water absorption of concrete
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33448/rsd-v15i5.51124Keywords:
Plasticizing admixtures, Workability, Compressive strength, Capillary absorption, Concrete.Abstract
The use of plasticizing admixtures in ready-mix concrete has become essential to ensure adequate workability during concrete transportation, placement, and compaction, especially in urban centers subjected to long delivery times. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the influence of different plasticizing admixtures on workability retention, compressive strength, and capillary water absorption of concrete. Three experimental concrete mixtures were produced using lignosulfonate-based admixtures and lignosulfonate combined with polycarboxylate admixtures. Workability was evaluated through slump tests performed over time, while compressive strength and capillary absorption tests were carried out to assess the mechanical performance and durability-related properties of hardened concrete. The results demonstrated that concretes produced with lignosulfonate-based admixtures showed greater workability stability and lower capillary absorption rates. The concrete containing polycarboxylate presented higher early-age compressive strength at 3 days, reaching 25.56 MPa, but also showed greater slump loss and higher capillary absorption throughout the tests. At 28 days, the concrete produced with lignosulfonate-based admixture achieved the best mechanical performance, reaching an average compressive strength of 42.53 MPa. The findings indicate that the choice of admixture significantly influences both the rheological behavior of fresh concrete and the mechanical and durability-related properties of hardened concrete. It was concluded that lignosulfonate-based admixtures presented the most balanced overall performance under the experimental conditions analyzed.
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