Microbial-based plasticizing additive for ready-mixed concrete in Cuba
Keywords:
bioproducts, efficient microorganisms, compressive strengthAbstract
Introduction: Chemical admixtures are an important component in concrete formulation. Cuba imports these products, and the current demand is not covered. A multidisciplinary team was set to develop a new, locally developed plasticizer, produced with local raw materials.
Methods: Characterization of the bio-product was done, as well as the validation of the increase in flow and the improvement of cement hydration. The product was formulated commercially and its use in concrete was also validated, including the impact on strength. A technology for the manufacture of the product was designed and implemented in a pilot plant.
Results: the product CBQ-VTC® was developed. It meets the requirements of NC 228-1:2005 and NC 271: 2003 and allows an increase in the plasticity of cement pastes. It reduces the water (13%-15%) used in the concrete, generated increases (5%-10%) in the strength and reductions of 25 kg-28 kg of cement/m3 of concrete. MICONS issued the DITEC certificate Nr. 818, which allows commercial trading. A pilot plant with the capacity to produce up to 30 thousand liters per month has been set into production, and until beginning of 2021, 96 282 liters of the product have been sold, with savings above 1MM CUP and import substitution in the range of 60M USD. As some conclusions the bio-product has been proven as moderate fluidizer and its contribution to improving hydration, which reflects on modest increases in compressive strength in concrete. CBQ-VTC® is issued with a DITEC certificate for further commercial sales. The work presented closes a cycle of multidisciplinary research which ends up in a concrete product, that is produced and sold within the country, with savings in materials and import substitutions.
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