3.2.7 Admixtures
Admixtures shall be used correctly and in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
When using admixtures:
- accelerators may assist the mortar or concrete to set before temperatures fall (admixtures do not prevent frost damage to uncured concrete or mortar)
- plasticisers can entrain air during mixing to provide frost resistance to mature mortar and concrete
- in cold weather, retarding agents should not be used as they can increase the setting times of cement
- in cold weather, bonding agents may be ineffective
- those containing calcium chloride should be avoided.
Last updated: 2nd January 2024