The word additive, depending on the adjective, can be defined as that which can or should be added; and from its significance derive various uses. A particular use lies in civil engineering where an additive is that product that is added to the concrete during the mixing process, in small quantities, around a percentage between 0.1% and 5%, this will also depend on the product or the effect that desired, with the main purpose of obtaining a modification in certain original properties, or in the behavior of the material in its fresh state and / or in working conditions in a controlled and predictable manner.
Currently, thanks to the evolution of the chemical industry and perhaps also nanotechnology, these additives that are added to concrete help it to perform better, it should also be noted that numerous products can be obtained on the market that satisfy the needs of people. who use this type of material.
According to the Standard Specification of Chemical Additives for Concrete, additives can be classified depending on their function, but it can also be by some additional action; among them we can mention:
TYPE A. Water reducers.
TYPE B. Retarders.
TYPE C. Accelerators.
TYPE D. Water reducers and retarder accelerators.
TYPE E. High-range or super-fluidizing water reducers.
TYPE F. High-rank water reducers and retarders, or super-fluidizers and retardants.
On the other hand, an additive can also be a substance that is added to food to prevent its deterioration, and on the contrary, it can be kept in good condition, this additive can also flavor, color, improve or maintain its structure. Finally, additives are also petroleum products that are added to lubricants in small percentages and to fuels, thus improving one or more of their properties.
