Effect of superplasticizer on workability and strength of concrete

Abstract

This research investigates the effects of superplasticizers on workability and strength in concrete mixture. Sulphonated naphthalene formaldehyde (SNF), one of four classes of superplasticizers has been chose in this research. SNF has been chose based on its low cost production and commonly used around the world. Hence, it is easier to gain rather than other classes. Through this research, four types of concrete mixed were prepared. There were a control mix, M, concrete mix with 5% of SNF, M1, concrete mix with 6% of SNF, M2 and last but not least concrete mix with 7% of SNF, M3. SNF were added to selected concrete mix without reducing or changing on ratios of original mixture. The first parameter studied was workability of concrete mix without and after SNF has been added up with different dosages. This differentiation will be abstract through slump test. It is found that the more SNF being added up, the more slump loss will occur. The second parameter studied was compressive strength between original mix and concrete mix that have been added up by SNF with different dosages. An increasing of compressive strength can be concluded. Mixtures with SNF were slightly higher than normal concrete mixture.