Shotcrete admixtures aluminates

The aluminate-based admixtures undoubtedly provide the best wet-mix shotcrete, making it possible to build thick linings even in overhead work. The high alkali content and the consequent health hazard are the main constraints to their more widespread use. Furthermore, there is concern that the admixture may promote the alkali-aggregate reaction in concretes containing reactive aggregates, as well as sulfate attack [117]. 

Many substances are known to act as accelerators for concrete. These include soluble inorganic chlorides, bromides, fluorides, carbonates, thiocyanates, nitrites, nitrates, thiosulfates, silicates, aliuninates, alkali hydroxides, and soluble organic compounds such as triethanolamine, calcium formate, calcium acetate, calcium propionate, and calcium butyrate. Some of them are used in combination with water reducers. Quick setting admixture s used in shotcrete applications and which promote setting in a few minutes may contain sodium silicate, sodium aluminate, aluminum chloride, sodium fluoride, strong alkalis, and calcium chloride. Others are solid admixtures such as calcium aluminate, seeds of finely divided Portland cement, silicate minerals, finely divided magnesium carbonate, and calcium carbonate. Of these, calcium chloride has been the most widely used because of its ready availability, low cost, predictable performance characteristics, and successful application over several decades.In some countries the use of calcium chloride is prohibited, in some others, such as Canada and the USA, the use of calcium chloride is permitted provided certain precautions are taken. Attempts have continued to find an effective alternative to calcium chloride because of some of the problems associated with its use. 

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