Construction chemicals are substances that are added to construction materials or applied on construction surfaces to enhance their properties or performance. They serve various purposes, such as improving strength, durability, workability, and corrosion resistance. Here are some common types of construction chemicals:
Admixtures:
- Water Reducers (Plasticizers): These additives reduce the water content in concrete or mortar mixtures without affecting the workability. They improve the strength and durability of the final product.
- Retarders: These slow down the setting time of concrete, allowing for more time for placement and finishing.
- Accelerators: They speed up the setting and hardening of concrete, which can be useful in cold weather conditions.
- Air-Entraining Agents: These create tiny air bubbles in concrete, improving its workability and resistance to freezing and thawing.
- Superplasticizers: They are high-range water reducers that can greatly improve the workability of concrete without significantly reducing its water content.
Waterproofing Chemicals:
- Water Repellents: These materials prevent the penetration of water into concrete, masonry, or other building materials.
- Water-Reducing and Waterproofing Admixtures: These serve a dual purpose of improving workability and providing water resistance.
Repair and Rehabilitation Chemicals:
- Concrete Repair Mortars: These are used to repair damaged or deteriorated concrete structures.
- Corrosion Inhibitors: They protect reinforcing steel in concrete from corrosion caused by moisture and chemicals.
Sealants and Joint Fillers:
- Sealants: These are used to seal joints, gaps, and cracks in building structures to prevent water, air, or pests from entering.
- Joint Fillers: They are used to fill gaps in concrete or masonry joints to improve aesthetics and prevent moisture intrusion.
Surface Treatment Chemicals:
- Curing Compounds: These are applied to the surface of fresh concrete to retain moisture and promote proper curing.
- Bonding Agents: They improve the bond between old and new concrete or between concrete and other materials.
Adhesives:
- Tile Adhesives and Grouts: These are used for fixing tiles to surfaces and grouting the gaps between them.
- Wood Adhesives: Used for bonding wood elements in construction.
Protective Coatings:
- Anti-Corrosion Coatings: These protect metal surfaces from corrosion due to exposure to harsh environments.
- Anti-Graffiti Coatings: They form a protective barrier to prevent graffiti from adhering to surfaces.
Flooring Chemicals:
- Floor Hardeners: These improve the durability and resistance of concrete floors.
- Floor Coatings: Provide protective layers to concrete or other flooring materials.
Concrete Admixtures for Specialty Applications:
- Shotcrete Admixtures: These are specialized admixtures used in the application of shotcrete, a method of applying concrete.
- Self-Consolidating Concrete (SCC) Admixtures: They help achieve high flowability and self-leveling properties in concrete.
It's important to note that the selection of construction chemicals depends on the specific requirements of the project, the type of construction materials used, and the environmental conditions the structure will be exposed to. Always consult with professionals and follow manufacturer's guidelines when using construction chemicals.
There are several world-class manufacturers of construction chemicals. Here are some well-known companies known for producing high-quality construction chemical products:
BASF SE – BASF is one of the largest chemical companies in the world and offers a wide range of construction chemical products including admixtures, waterproofing solutions, concrete repair, and more.
Sika Group – Sika is a global specialty chemicals company known for its comprehensive range of products for construction and industry. They offer solutions for concrete admixtures, waterproofing, sealants, and more.
Dow Chemical Company – Dow provides a variety of construction chemicals including insulation, adhesives, and sealants. They are known for their high-quality products and innovative solutions.
Saint-Gobain Weber – Saint-Gobain Weber is a leading manufacturer of construction materials, including tile adhesives, grouts, waterproofing, and flooring solutions.
Fosroc International – Fosroc is a global manufacturer of construction chemicals, known for their range of admixtures, concrete repair, grouts, and waterproofing solutions.
Mapei – Mapei is a worldwide leader in the production of adhesives, sealants, and chemical products for the building industry. They offer a wide range of products including admixtures, sealants, and grouts.
