Concrete admixtures can improve workability, durability and consistency. For volumetric mixer users, the right choice can also help you work more efficiently and take on higher-value jobs.
At Volumech UK, we supply admixtures suited to volumetric mixers and support customers with lab trials to develop specialist mixes such as self-compacting concrete, foam concrete, screed and mortar, permeable concrete and waterproof concrete. That means more capability, and higher-margin products in your range.
We’ve put together a practical overview of the main admixture types, what they’re used for, and where they can make a noticeable difference.
Water-Reducing Admixtures
Purpose: To reduce the amount of water needed to achieve a particular slump.
Benefit:
- Increases compressive strength
- Reduces permeability
- Improves durability
All without compromising workability. These are fundamental for producing stronger, longer-lasting concrete.
Superplasticizers (High-Range Water Reducers)
Purpose: To dramatically increase workability or flowability, even with very low water–cement ratios.
Benefit:
- Enables high-strength concrete
- Essential for self-compacting concrete (SCC)
- Helps concrete flow easily around dense reinforcement
Superplasticizers are key for specialist or performance concrete mixes.
Retarding Admixtures
Purpose: To slow down the setting time of concrete.
Benefit:
- Provides extra working time in hot weather
- Ideal for large pours or difficult placements
- Reduces cold joints
Retarders ensure better control and consistency when conditions demand extended open time.
Accelerating Admixtures
Purpose: To speed up setting and early strength gain.
Benefit:
- Perfect for cold weather concreting
- Shortens turnaround times in precast production
- Allows earlier finishing or loading
Accelerators increase productivity when rapid strength is a priority.
Air-Entraining Admixtures
Purpose: To introduce tiny, stable air bubbles throughout the concrete.
Benefit:
- Significantly improves freeze–thaw resistance
- Protects against de-icing salts
- Enhances overall durability in harsh environments
These admixtures are essential for exterior concrete exposed to winter conditions.
Fibres (Steel, Polypropylene, Synthetic Macro, Glass)
Purpose & Benefit:
- Increase toughness and ductility
- Reduce shrinkage cracking
- Improve impact and abrasion resistance
Fibres can enhance or even replace traditional reinforcement depending on the application.
Water-Proofing Admixtures
Purpose: To reduce permeability by physically blocking capillaries or chemically modifying hydration products.
Benefit:
- Prevents water penetration, even under pressure
- Reduces efflorescence
- Improves long-term durability in wet or below-ground environments
Typical applications: basements, water tanks, retaining walls, swimming pools, foundations, and any structure exposed to groundwater.
Supporting Your Specialist Concrete Production
Volumech’s admixture range is selected with volumetric mixer performance in mind, helping operators move from standard mixes to specialist options that customers will pay a premium for. If you’re aiming to supply SCC, permeable concrete, waterproof mixes, foam concrete, or improved screeds and mortars, we can support you with controlled trials to dial in the right combination and dosage.
The goal is simple: help you supply more demanding mixes with confidence, keep quality consistent on site, and build a range that sets you apart for the right reasons.
Our expert team are always on hand to discuss your requirements in more detail to develop the right solution for you. Get in touch to talk more.
