Admixtures are commonly used to control the concrete flow, shrinkage, air entrainment, setting times (both retarding and accelerating), water reduction and corrosion inhibition.

We are able to evaluate the claims of the additives on samples of treated concrete in our laboratories through the measurement of flow, setting time and air contents on wet concrete, and then shrinkage, strength, flexural strength and the rate of hydration of hardened concrete.

We also evaluate the chemical constituents of admixtures and help to establish other suitable proportions of components that may be substituted to improve the product performance or reduce costs.

Lucideon can test to BS EN 934 to help manufacturers obtain their CE Mark. The range of standards includes:

• Part 2. Concrete admixtures
• Part 3. Admixtures for mortar
• Part 4. Admixtures for grout
• Part 5. Admixtures for sprayed concrete.

Tests requirements include:

• Chloride ion content
• Setting time
• Alkali content
• Corrosion behaviour
• Compressive strength
• Air content
• Water reduction
• Bleeding
• Consistency
• Durability
• Chemical content.