Silica Based Concrete Additives: The Texture And The Uses
A concrete additive is something that is added to the cement mixture during the process of construction. These additives are used to provide more strength and durability to the cement mixture. Nowadays it is very common to see skyscrapers. Concrete additives are added during the construction of these buildings as they can withstand the pressure exerted by them.
When silicon metal is heated it gives fumes, which is mainly composed of micro-silica and is non-crystalline in nature. These particles measure about 150 Nanometers in diameter and are spherical in shape.
Properties of silica fumes for concrete
- Very small or tiny particles individually constitute to give it the structure of silica fumes.
- It takes a big surface area because of its fine texture.
- It is mainly a reactive pozzolan.
- Silica based concrete additives are generally added to concrete at the time of production. This helps to increase the strength and durability of the concrete.
- This is a more pocket-friendly product.
- It has the capacity to hold the weight of a skyscraper.
- These fumes have a low water consistency which makes it a high register for the penetration of chloride ions.
- The newly formed structures or bridges or a structure which is being repaired is done with the help of silica fumes mixed with concrete.
Silica fumes or micro-silica is the non-crystalline form of silicon dioxide. This is available in the form of powder and consists of very fine particles of silica. It provides the durability and strength in two different ways: -
Silica-based concrete additives help in distributing and maintain the equal volume throughout the products of hydration. This happens when it is available in the form of pozzolanic material.
The size of the pores of silica fumes is reduced when it appears in the form of filler. The effectiveness of both the forms of silica mainly depends on its composition.
Application of silica-based concrete additives
The use of silica-based concrete additivesis always beneficial. The properties of cement rise when the additive is added to it. The properties are as follows: -
1.Resists abrasion- the silica-based concrete additives have high resisting capability against abrasion.
2.Resists corrosion – the decreased permeability in silica fumes helps it to form a protective layer against the chloride ions which affects the steel bars.
The silica fumes can be of great use if collected. It has an adverse effect as well as it pollutes the air if not collected.
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