Where properly designed, this air-void system can improve resistance to freeze-thaw deterioration and deicing-salt scaling in exposed concrete. This is different from large, accidentally entrapped air pockets caused by inadequate compaction. The required air content and spacing characteristics depend on exposure, aggregate size and applicable specifications.
Air content can vary with cement, fly ash, mixing energy, transport and other admixtures.
Before you use it
- Additional air can reduce compressive strength, so the mixture must be proportioned and tested accordingly.
- Projects should measure fresh air content and, where specified, hardened air-void parameters.
- Air entrainment is not a universal waterproofing solution and should not be added casually to structural concrete without an exposure-driven requirement.
General technical guidance. Final product selection, dosage and system details are confirmed from the manufacturer data sheet and a site assessment.
