What Does an Accelerator Do in Concrete?

Concrete is the backbone of modern construction, used in everything from skyscrapers to bridges, sidewalks, and tunnels. Its strength, durability, and versatility make it one of the most widely used building materials globally. However, external factors such as cold weather, changes in humidity, and tight construction deadlines can significantly impact the performance of concrete. In particular, cold temperatures slow the hydration process of the cement, resulting in delayed setting times, reduced early strength, and an increased potential for cracking or freeze damage.

To overcome these challenges, construction professionals often utilize concrete accelerators—specialized chemical admixtures that accelerate the setting and early strength development of concrete.

What are concrete accelerators?

Concrete accelerators are admixtures added to cement-based mixes to reduce setting times and accelerate early strength development. They can improve production efficiency and performance, especially in adverse weather conditions.

Accelerators work by accelerating the hydration of cement. This results in faster setting and earlier strength gains, allowing for quick formwork removal, reduced labor costs, and a shorter overall project schedule.

TJCY offers high-performance concrete accelerator solutions, including calcium formate and triisopropanolamine, to meet the diverse needs of construction sites worldwide.

Common Types of Accelerators

At TJCY, we supply two widely used types of accelerators:

1. Calcium Formate (甲酸钙)

CAS No.: 544-17-2

Known for enhancing early strength in both mortar and concrete. It performs well in low-temperature conditions and is compatible with a wide range of cement types.

2. Triisopropanolamine (三异丙醇胺, TIPA)

CAS No.: 122-20-3

A common grinding aid and setting accelerator that boosts early hydration. It is often used in blended cement systems and is especially effective in improving the strength development in concrete mixes.

Key Benefits of Concrete Accelerators

Rapid Setting Time: Speeds up concrete hardening, which is especially important for repairs, precast work, or fast-paced construction.

Cold Weather Performance: Prevents concrete from freezing and maintains curing rates in low temperatures.

Earlier Strength Gain: Enables faster removal of formwork, helping speed up the construction process.

Improved Site Efficiency: Helps projects stay on schedule by minimizing curing delays.

Ideal for Precast Manufacturing: Supports tight production timelines in factory-controlled environments.

Choosing the Right Accelerator

Selection depends on:

Weather Conditions: Cold climates require more robust accelerators like calcium formate.

Reinforced Concrete Use: For steel-reinforced structures, chloride-free options like TIPA and calcium formate are ideal.

Desired Setting Speed: Triisopropanolamine is better for slightly delayed but higher strength development; calcium formate is for rapid action.

How to Use Concrete Accelerators Effectively

Follow Recommended Dosages: Too much accelerator can cause cracking or reduce durability.

Ensure Proper Mixing: Uniform distribution is essential for consistent performance.

Consider Compatibility: Always test compatibility with other admixtures and cement types in advance.