Vol. 24, No. 3 (2025), Mat25638 https://doi.org/10.24275/rmiq/Mat25638

Influence of the retardant additive on the compressive strength of concrete

 

Authors

S. Vishkulli, M. Hoxhaj, S. Vito, I. Boci

Abstract

Concrete is the most widely used construction material globally, and its performance can be tailored through the incorporation of various admixtures. Chemical additives for concrete preparation have achieved great success in recent decades. Proper use of admixtures can improve the quality and properties of concrete mixes. This experimental study investigates the effect of a retardant additive on the compressive strength of the concrete. The water and aggregates used were characterized and their accordance with standard requirements was confirmed before their use in concrete mixtures. Standard cubic specimens of 15x15x15cm were prepared in accordance with relevant specifications to achieve the desired concrete grade (C20/25). A comparative analysis was conducted using concrete samples with and without additive. Compressive strength tests were performed at 3, 7 and 28 days. The results indicate that the use of the retardant additive contributes positively to the enhancement of the compressive strength of the concrete over time.

Keywords

concrete, retardant additive, compressive strength, aggregate, PSD.

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