Construction / Concrete Chemicals

construction concrete chemicals

ASR Inhibitor (Lithium Nitrate for Alkali-Silica Reaction)

CAS: 7790-69-4

Lithium nitrate-based ASR inhibitor prevents alkali-silica reaction (ASR) in concrete by altering the chemistry of the reactive gel formed between alkali hydroxides and reactive silica aggregates, preventing the expansive gel from absorbing water and causing cracking. It is the most effective and widely used chemical solution for ASR mitigation and is applied at dosages based on the Li/(Na+K) molar ratio, typically 0.74 or higher.

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Acrylic Flexible Tile Grout

CAS: 9003-01-4

Acrylic-based flexible tile grout is a polymer-modified cementitious grout that combines the durability and chemical resistance of cement with the flexibility and color retention of acrylic polymers. It provides excellent stain resistance, crack bridging capability, and resistance to thermal and mechanical movement, making it ideal for demanding tile installation in kitchens, bathrooms, and exterior applications.

construction concrete chemicals

Acrylic Membrane Curing Compound

CAS: 9003-01-4

Acrylic-based membrane curing compound is applied to freshly placed concrete surfaces to form a continuous, water-impermeable film that retains moisture for adequate hydration. It provides a reliable, cost-effective alternative to wet curing methods such as burlap or ponding, especially for large horizontal surfaces like slabs, pavements, and bridge decks. Available in clear and white-pigmented formulas; white-pigmented types also reduce surface temperature in hot weather.

construction concrete chemicals

Acrylic Redispersible Polymer Powder for Mortar

CAS: 9003-01-4

Acrylic-based redispersible polymer powder (RDP) is a spray-dried acrylic latex that provides superior weathering resistance, UV stability, and water resistance compared to VAE-based RDPs. When incorporated into dry-mix mortars, it forms a durable flexible film that improves adhesion, tensile bond strength, and long-term durability. It is especially valued in exterior applications such as ETICS base coats, waterproofing mortars, and exterior tile adhesives.

construction concrete chemicals

Alkali-Resistant (AR) Glass Fiber for Concrete

Alkali-resistant (AR) glass fiber is a zirconia-containing glass fiber specifically engineered to withstand the highly alkaline environment of Portland cement concrete. It is used in glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) for thin precast elements, facade panels, and decorative products, providing tensile reinforcement without the corrosion risk of steel. AR glass fiber maintains long-term tensile strength in concrete due to its high ZrO2 content (≥16%).

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Amino Alcohol Rust-Inhibiting Admixture

CAS: 141-43-5

Amino alcohol-based mixed-type corrosion inhibitor (also marketed as organic inhibitor or amine-based inhibitor) provides cathodic and anodic protection for steel reinforcement in concrete through adsorption onto the steel surface. Unlike calcium nitrite, it is organic, low-toxicity, and migrating — meaning it can penetrate existing concrete when applied as a surface treatment to reach embedded steel. Typical dosage: 3–10 L/m³.

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Basalt Fiber Concrete Reinforcement

Basalt fiber is a natural mineral fiber produced by melting volcanic basalt rock and drawing it into continuous filaments. As a concrete reinforcement, chopped basalt fiber offers superior tensile strength, excellent alkali resistance, and higher thermal stability compared to polypropylene and glass fibers. It is an emerging sustainable alternative to traditional fibers, with applications in structural concrete, shotcrete, and composites where corrosion resistance and high strength are required.

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Calcium Chloride Early Strength Accelerator

CAS: 10043-52-4

Calcium chloride is the most widely used accelerating admixture for concrete, shortening setting time and dramatically increasing early compressive strength in cold-weather construction. It is effective at low temperatures where normal cement hydration slows significantly. Due to its chloride content, its use is restricted to plain (non-reinforced) concrete or specific applications as per ASTM C494 Type C and E.

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Calcium Formate Winter Construction Accelerator

CAS: 544-17-2

Calcium formate is a chloride-free, eco-friendly accelerating admixture that promotes early strength development in concrete and mortar, particularly valuable in cold-weather and winter construction. It accelerates both the initial and final setting of Portland cement without introducing corrosive chlorides, making it suitable for reinforced concrete and prestressed structures. Typical dosage is 1–3% by cement weight.

construction concrete chemicals

Calcium Nitrite Concrete Corrosion Inhibitor

CAS: 13780-06-8

Calcium nitrite is the most widely proven anodic corrosion inhibitor for steel reinforcement in concrete, passivating the steel surface and raising the chloride threshold concentration required to initiate corrosion. Applied at 10–30 L/m³, it can extend the service life of reinforced concrete structures in chloride-rich environments (marine, de-icing salts) by 2–4 times. It also provides a mild early-strength acceleration effect.

construction concrete chemicals

Concrete Form Release Agent (Mold Oil)

Concrete form release agent (mold oil) is applied to formwork surfaces to prevent concrete from bonding to the form, ensuring clean, defect-free stripping and prolonging the life of formwork. Modern release agents are available in chemical reactive (fatty acid-based), barrier (oil-based), and water-based emulsion types. The choice of release agent significantly affects the surface finish quality of the formed concrete.

construction concrete chemicals

Crystalline Waterproofing Additive (Calcium Silicate Hydrate)

CAS: 1344-95-2

Crystalline waterproofing additive works by generating calcium silicate hydrate (CSH) crystals that fill and block concrete capillary pores and micro-cracks, providing long-term integral waterproofing. Unlike surface-applied membranes, it becomes a permanent part of the concrete matrix and self-seals new cracks up to 0.4 mm wide throughout the structure's life. Dosage is typically 2–4% by cement weight.

construction concrete chemicals

Epoxy Injection Resin for Crack Repair

CAS: 25068-38-6

Low-viscosity epoxy injection resin is a two-component structural adhesive system (resin + hardener) designed for pressure injection into hairline cracks (0.05–5 mm) in concrete, masonry, and stone to restore structural integrity. The cured epoxy achieves tensile strength exceeding the concrete substrate, creating a monolithic repair. Formulations are available in standard, fast, and low-temperature cure versions.

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Expansive Agent CSA (Calcium Sulfoaluminate)

CAS: 65997-16-2

Calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA)-based expansive agent compensates for concrete shrinkage by generating controlled expansion through ettringite formation during cement hydration. Used at 6–12% replacement of cement, it is widely applied in compensating-shrinkage concrete, self-stressing concrete, and crack-resistant structures such as water tanks and basement walls. Compliant with ASTM C845 and Chinese GB/T 23439.

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Fly Ash Class C Supplementary Cementitious Material

CAS: 93821-59-1

Class C fly ash is a high-calcium by-product of coal combustion that exhibits both pozzolanic and self-cementitious properties. Used at 15–40% replacement of cement, it improves workability, reduces heat of hydration, enhances long-term strength, and contributes to sustainable construction by replacing a significant proportion of clinker. Class C fly ash is particularly valued in mass concrete, pavement concrete, and high-volume fly ash (HVFA) mixes.

construction concrete chemicals

Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBS)

CAS: 65996-69-2

Ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) is a latent hydraulic binder obtained by quenching molten blast furnace slag in water, then grinding to high fineness. Used at 30–70% replacement of Portland cement, GGBS significantly reduces heat of hydration, improves sulfate resistance, reduces chloride permeability, and contributes to a lower carbon footprint. Long-term strength continues to develop well beyond 28 days.

construction concrete chemicals

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) for Mortar & Tile Adhesive

CAS: 9004-65-3

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a non-ionic cellulose ether widely used as a water retention agent, thickener, and workability improver in dry-mix mortar and tile adhesive formulations. It dramatically reduces water loss to porous substrates, ensuring adequate cement hydration and improving bond strength. HPMC also imparts anti-sag, open time, and smooth application properties critical in tile and plaster applications.

construction concrete chemicals

Integral Waterproofing Agent (Hydrophobic Admixture)

CAS: 112-02-7

Integral hydrophobic waterproofing agent is a fatty acid salt-based or stearate-based admixture that lines the capillary pores of concrete with hydrophobic compounds, reducing water absorption and enhancing durability. Unlike crystalline systems, it operates through hydrophobicity rather than pore-blocking, providing excellent resistance to driving rain and capillary suction. It is suitable for above-ground concrete elements, retaining walls, and masonry.

construction concrete chemicals

Lignosulfonate Retarder (Water Reducer & Set Retarder)

CAS: 8062-15-5

Lignosulfonate-based concrete admixture is a natural by-product of the pulp industry, functioning simultaneously as a normal-range water reducer (8–12%) and a mild set retarder. It is one of the most cost-effective concrete admixtures available and is widely used where modest workability improvement and retardation of 1–3 hours are needed. Available in calcium and sodium salt forms.

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Lithium Silicate Concrete Densifier & Hardener

CAS: 10102-24-6

Lithium silicate concrete densifier is a penetrating chemical hardener that reacts with calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) in the concrete to form additional insoluble calcium silicate hydrate (CSH), permanently filling and sealing the capillary pores. It dramatically increases surface hardness, abrasion resistance, and dust-proofing of concrete floors. Lithium silicate penetrates deeper than sodium or potassium silicate and produces smaller, more stable reaction products.

construction concrete chemicals

Melamine Superplasticizer (SMF Plasticizer)

CAS: 25036-13-9

Sulfonated melamine formaldehyde (SMF) condensate is a high-performance concrete plasticizer offering water reduction rates of 20–25% with minimal retardation. It produces light-colored concrete suitable for architectural applications and is especially valued in floor screeds and industrial flooring where appearance and early strength are critical. SMF is compatible with gypsum-based systems as well as Portland cement.

construction concrete chemicals

Metakaolin Pozzolanic Additive

CAS: 92704-41-1

Metakaolin is a highly reactive pozzolan produced by calcination of kaolin clay at 600–800°C, removing chemically bound water to create a highly disordered alumino-silicate phase. Used at 5–20% replacement of cement, it rapidly reacts with calcium hydroxide to produce dense, low-permeability concrete with high early strength. Metakaolin also reduces concrete efflorescence and is favored in white and architectural concrete.

construction concrete chemicals

Methyl Cellulose (MC) for Dry-Mix Mortar

CAS: 9004-67-5

Methyl cellulose (MC) is a non-ionic cellulose ether used in dry-mix mortars, renders, and plasters as a water retention agent and thickener. It dissolves readily in cold water and provides stable viscosity, good workability, and controlled water retention. MC is particularly valued in masonry mortars, render coats, and floor leveling compounds where consistent water management is critical for proper curing and bond development.

construction concrete chemicals

Nano Silica Concrete Densifier & Strength Enhancer

CAS: 7631-86-9

Colloidal nano silica is an ultra-fine amorphous silicon dioxide suspension with particle sizes of 5–100 nm, providing a pozzolanic reactivity many times greater than microsilica. At dosages of 1–5% by cement weight, it dramatically accelerates early strength development, refines pore structure, reduces permeability, and improves the ITZ (interfacial transition zone) bond between cement paste and aggregates. It is used in ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) and demanding infrastructure applications.

construction concrete chemicals

Naphthalene Superplasticizer (SNF Water Reducer)

CAS: 36290-04-7

Sulfonated naphthalene formaldehyde (SNF) condensate superplasticizer is a classic second-generation water-reducing admixture delivering water reduction rates of 15–25%. It provides strong initial fluidity and early strength gain, making it well-suited for precast concrete and normal-strength ready-mix applications. The product is cost-effective and compatible with most Portland cement types.

construction concrete chemicals

PCE Superplasticizer (Polycarboxylate Ether Water Reducer)

CAS: 9003-01-4

Polycarboxylate ether (PCE) superplasticizer is a high-performance water-reducing admixture based on comb-shaped copolymer technology, offering water reduction rates exceeding 30%. It imparts excellent workability retention to concrete mixes without retardation and is compatible with supplementary cementitious materials. Widely adopted in ready-mix, precast, and high-performance concrete applications.

construction concrete chemicals

Polypropylene Fiber for Concrete Anti-Cracking

CAS: 9003-07-0

Polypropylene (PP) micro-fiber reinforcement is a synthetic fiber added to concrete and mortar to control plastic shrinkage cracking, enhance toughness, and improve impact resistance. The three-dimensional random distribution of fibers bridges micro-cracks before they can propagate, significantly reducing crack width and frequency. It is available in monofilament and fibrillated forms, with lengths from 6 to 54 mm.

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Polyurea Expansion Joint Filler

CAS: 9009-54-5

Two-component polyurea elastomeric joint filler provides flexible, durable sealing of expansion joints, control joints, and isolation joints in concrete floors and pavements. It delivers excellent resistance to dynamic loading, wheel traffic, thermal expansion, and chemical spills. Polyurea cures in 30–60 minutes at ambient temperature and offers superior abrasion resistance compared to polyurethane- or silicone-based joint sealants.

construction concrete chemicals

Polyurethane Expansive Grouting Resin

CAS: 9009-54-5

Polyurethane (PU) expansive grouting resin is a single or two-component system that reacts with water to generate a rigid or flexible foam, expanding up to 20–30 times its original volume to fill voids and stop water ingress in concrete structures. It is highly effective for stopping active water flows in tunnels, basements, and underground structures. Available in hydrophilic (reacts with water to foam) and hydrophobic (non-foaming, for soil injection) grades.

construction concrete chemicals

Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) Fiber for Crack-Resistant Mortar

CAS: 9002-89-5

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fiber is a hydrophilic synthetic fiber used in cement composites to improve tensile strength, flexural toughness, and crack resistance. Due to its high tensile modulus and strong chemical bond with the cement matrix, PVA fibers are especially effective in engineered cementitious composites (ECC) and fiber-reinforced concrete overlays. PVA fibers can be manufactured in micro to macro lengths for different applications.

construction concrete chemicals

Potassium Silicate Concrete Surface Sealer

CAS: 1312-76-1

Potassium silicate solution is used as a penetrating concrete sealer and surface hardener. It reacts with calcium hydroxide in concrete to form insoluble potassium calcium silicate crystals, sealing pores and increasing surface hardness and abrasion resistance. Its high pH and reactivity make it slightly faster-acting than lithium silicate while still being more stable than sodium silicate. It is widely used for initial concrete floor densification prior to polishing.

construction concrete chemicals

Rapid-Setting Hydraulic Cement Waterproof Plug

Rapid-setting hydraulic cement waterproof plug is a single-component, ultra-fast-setting cementitious product that sets and hardens within 1–5 minutes to stop active water leaks in concrete structures. It is based on modified Portland cement with expansive additives that expand slightly on setting to create a watertight seal even under hydrostatic pressure. Widely used in basement waterproofing, tunnel repair, and dam sealing.

construction concrete chemicals

Redispersible Polymer Powder (VAE RDP)

CAS: 9003-20-7

Vinyl acetate-ethylene (VAE) redispersible polymer powder (RDP) is spray-dried polymer latex that, when mixed with water, redisperses into a fine emulsion and co-binds with cement hydration products. It significantly improves adhesion, flexibility, tensile strength, and water resistance of dry-mix mortar formulations. It is a key component in tile adhesives, external insulation compound systems (ETICS/EIFS), and repair mortars.

construction concrete chemicals

SBR Latex Bonding Agent for Concrete

CAS: 9010-81-5

Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) latex is a versatile polymer bonding agent used as a primer/slurry coat to maximize adhesion between new and old concrete or between concrete and repair mortars. When mixed with cement and applied as a slurry, it significantly improves bond strength due to the polymer's flexibility and adhesion to both the substrate and the overlay. Also used as an additive in repair mortars to improve crack resistance and waterproofing.

construction concrete chemicals

Self-Leveling Compound Additive (Casein & Redispersible Polymer)

CAS: 9000-71-9

Casein-based self-leveling compound additive functions as a flow agent and anti-sag modifier in cementitious self-leveling underlayments (SLUs). It imparts excellent flowability at low water-to-cement ratios while providing sufficient open time and preventing bleeding or segregation. Often combined with redispersible polymer powder to improve adhesion, flexibility, and wear resistance of the hardened compound.

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Set Accelerator for Sprayed Concrete (Shotcrete)

CAS: 7784-24-9

Alkali-free liquid set accelerator for sprayed concrete (shotcrete) provides rapid setting and early strength development immediately after spray application, enabling the construction of thicker layers without sloughing and minimizing rebound. Unlike traditional alkali-based accelerators, alkali-free formulations preserve long-term strength and do not cause flash set problems. Compliant with EN 934-5 for shotcrete admixtures, with dosage typically 4–8% by cement weight.

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Shrinkage Reducing Admixture (Propylene Glycol SRA)

CAS: 57-55-6

Propylene glycol-based shrinkage reducing admixture (SRA) reduces the surface tension of pore water in concrete, significantly decreasing drying shrinkage and the associated cracking risk. It can reduce drying shrinkage by 25–50% depending on dosage and mix design, extending service life of floors, slabs, and bridge decks. The product is chloride-free and compatible with all standard concrete admixtures.

construction concrete chemicals

Silane Concrete Sealer (Isobutyltriethoxysilane)

CAS: 5578-64-3

Isobutyltriethoxysilane is a penetrating silane sealer that reacts with concrete substrate to form a covalently bonded, water-repellent organosilicon network within the pore structure. It provides deep penetration (up to 20 mm), lasting hydrophobic protection against chloride ingress, water absorption, and carbonation for 10+ years. It is widely used for post-construction protection of bridges, parking structures, and coastal concrete.

construction concrete chemicals

Silica Fume (Microsilica) Pozzolanic Additive

CAS: 69012-64-2

Silica fume (microsilica) is an ultra-fine by-product of silicon metal production, consisting primarily of amorphous silicon dioxide with particle sizes 100x finer than cement. As a pozzolanic additive at 5–10% replacement of cement, it reacts with calcium hydroxide to form additional calcium silicate hydrate, dramatically densifying the concrete microstructure, increasing strength, and reducing permeability. It is essential in high-performance and ultra-high-performance concrete.

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Silicone Emulsion Water Repellent for Concrete

CAS: 63148-62-9

Silicone emulsion water repellent is a water-based siloxane/silicone formulation used as both an integral concrete admixture and a surface treatment to impart hydrophobicity. As an integral admixture, it homogeneously distributes hydrophobic species throughout the concrete matrix. As a surface treatment, it penetrates and reacts with the concrete to form a durable water-repellent barrier without changing the appearance.

construction concrete chemicals

Sodium Gluconate Set Retarder

CAS: 527-07-1

Sodium gluconate is a highly effective concrete set retarder derived from glucose fermentation, capable of extending initial setting time by 2–10 hours depending on dosage. It is commonly used in ready-mixed concrete for long-haul transport, oil-well cementing, and hot-weather construction. The product also exhibits mild water-reducing properties and enhances concrete workability.

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Sodium Silicate Chemical Grouting Agent

CAS: 1344-09-8

Sodium silicate (water glass) solution is a classic chemical grouting agent used in ground improvement and concrete treatment. When mixed with a reactant such as calcium chloride or sulfuric acid, it undergoes rapid gelation to form a rigid silica gel that binds soil particles, waterproofs formations, and seals cracks. It is widely used in underpinning, foundation strengthening, and tunneling through water-bearing soils.

construction concrete chemicals

Sodium Thiocyanate Set Time Accelerator

CAS: 540-72-7

Sodium thiocyanate is a highly effective chloride-free accelerator for Portland cement concrete, accelerating hydration and improving early compressive strength, particularly in cold-weather conditions. It is commonly used as a component in multi-component non-chloride accelerator systems and can achieve comparable performance to calcium chloride without the associated corrosion risks. Typical dosage is 0.5–2% by cement weight.

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Starch Ether Anti-Sag Additive for Mortar

CAS: 9032-08-0

Modified starch ether is a specialty additive for dry-mix mortars that dramatically improves anti-sag performance on vertical surfaces, enabling thick-layer application without slumping. It acts as a thixotropic agent at low dosage (0.02–0.1% by dry mortar weight), significantly increasing the sag resistance while maintaining good spreadability. It is particularly effective in combination with HPMC in tile adhesives and renders.

construction concrete chemicals

Steel Fiber for Concrete Reinforcement (Dramix Type)

Hooked-end steel fiber (Dramix type) is a high-performance concrete reinforcement material that significantly improves flexural strength, toughness, impact resistance, and ductility of concrete. The mechanical anchorage from hooked ends provides superior bond to the concrete matrix. Steel fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC) is used to partially or fully replace conventional rebar in slabs, tunnels, and industrial floors per design standards such as fib Model Code.

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Synthetic Air-Entraining Agent (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate)

CAS: 151-21-3

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)-based synthetic air-entraining agent is a high-purity surfactant admixture that generates a stable, finely dispersed air void system in concrete. It offers excellent consistency and reproducibility compared to natural resin-based AEAs, and is particularly effective in concrete mixes containing fly ash or slag. Compliant with ASTM C260 and widely used in precast and ready-mix concrete.

construction concrete chemicals

Synthetic Fiber Blend Micro-Crack Inhibitor

Synthetic micro-crack inhibitor is a blend of polypropylene and polyvinyl alcohol micro-fibers engineered to provide three-dimensional crack control at multiple scales in concrete and mortar. The dual-fiber system simultaneously addresses plastic shrinkage cracking (PP fibers, 6–12 mm) and hardened-state micro-crack propagation (PVA fibers, 3–6 mm). Available as pre-blended packets for simple addition directly to the concrete mixer.

construction concrete chemicals

Triethanolamine Cement Grinding Aid & Accelerator

CAS: 102-71-6

Triethanolamine (TEA) is a versatile concrete admixture used both as a cement grinding aid at the mill and as an early-strength accelerator in concrete mixes. At dosages of 0.02–0.05% by cement weight, it accelerates the hydration of C3A and C4AF phases, increasing 1-day and 3-day compressive strengths by 20–40%. It is chloride-free and safe for reinforced concrete.

construction concrete chemicals

Vinsol Resin Air-Entraining Agent

CAS: 8050-09-7

Vinsol resin-based air-entraining agent (AEA) is derived from wood rosin and introduces a stable, uniform network of microscopic air bubbles into concrete. This entrained air system dramatically improves freeze-thaw resistance and scaling resistance of hardened concrete, and also enhances fresh concrete workability. It meets ASTM C260 and EN 934-2 standards and is suitable for all Portland cement types.

construction concrete chemicals

Viscosity Modifying Agent for Self-Compacting Concrete

CAS: 9004-32-4

Viscosity modifying agent (VMA) is a water-soluble polymer admixture that increases the viscosity and cohesion of self-compacting concrete (SCC) mixes, preventing segregation and bleeding while maintaining high flowability. Typically used in combination with PCE superplasticizers to achieve the required SCC rheological properties: high flowability (slump flow 550–800 mm) with adequate viscosity (T500 ≤ 5 s) and segregation resistance. Cellulose ether and welan gum grades are most common.